HOUSTON, TX — The Port of Beaumont was awarded a $1.57 million grant by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) as part of the 2019-2020 Port Access Program. The grant will fund a new truck queuing area that will improve port access and provide safety benefits as a result of removing trucks from city streets.

The Port Access Grant Program, administered by TxDOT, has awarded $102.3 million in grants to 13 ports over the last six years. In addition to the $102.3 million awarded by TxDOT, ports have contributed $40.7 million to the projects, for a program impact of $143.1 million. This injection of more than $143 million into the economy over the last six years translates to jobs, improved maritime infrastructure and a competitive advantage for Texas ports.

The Port of Beaumont’s new truck queuing area will be able to accommodate 27 trucks and will include 14 back-in spots, 13 pull through spots, and a dog run with a green space. This project was developed as a result of a 87 percent increase in cargo volume at the port from 2017-2019 and will greatly increase operational efficiencies, while also providing a designated space for truck drivers that is safe and secure.

“The primary benefit of the new queuing area will be improved access into and out of the port. By having a designated area for trucks to be staged, our response time will be quicker, trucks will be removed from city streets, and drivers will have a space to decompress while they wait,” said Port Director Chris Fisher. “The Port Access Program is a tremendous asset that helps keep Texas ports competitive, and we are grateful to TxDOT for the work they have done to ensure the program is sustainable.”