Port of Richmond, CA awarded $11.22 million federal grant to modernize Berth 7

The Port of Richmond today announced it has been selected to receive $11.22 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD). The award will support critical infrastructure improvements at Berth 7 at the Point Potrero Marine Terminal through the Port’s Dock Restoration for Improved Vehicle Entry (DRIVE) Project.

The PIDP grant will fund the rehabilitation and modernization of Berth 7, a key roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) facility that handles imported vehicles and other cargo essential to regional and national commerce. The total project cost is approximately $14.03 million, with the Port contributing a 20% local match.

“This is a transformative investment in the Port of Richmond and the City of Richmond,” said Port Director Charles Gerard. “The DRIVE Project will restore critical infrastructure, improve safety and efficiency, and position our Port to meet growing demand while strengthening the resilience of the nation’s supply chain.”

Critical Infrastructure Investment

Berth 7 is one of the Port’s most important maritime assets and currently operates under significant constraints due to aging infrastructure. The DRIVE Project will address these issues through structural rehabilitation of the wharf, restoring the deck and surface conditions, enhancements to load-bearing capacity, and resilience against seismic and climate-related risks

These upgrades will restore the berth’s operational capacity and allow it to safely handle heavier and more diverse cargo.

The Port has already completed early planning and engineering work through the 2025 Point Potrero Marine Terminal Condition Assessment Report completed by Moffatt & Nichol and will move forward with final design, environmental review, and permitting. Construction is anticipated to begin in the Winter of 2027 with completion targeted by Winter 2028.

“This federal investment ensures that the Port of Richmond remains competitive, resilient, and ready to serve future generations,” added Mayor Eduardo Martinez. “We thank the U.S.

Department of Transportation and MARAD for recognizing the importance of this project. We also want to thank Congressman John Garamendi (D-Calif.-08) for his continued interest and support for the City and Port of Richmond.”

Workforce and Community Impact

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the DRIVE Project will support local workforce development through construction jobs, expanded port operations, and new training opportunities. Engineering and construction work will be procured through the City of Richmond’s PlanetBids platform. The funding will also support two internships with the Port’s largest tenant, Auto Warehousing Company. The project aligns with the City of Richmond’s broader goals of advancing economic opportunity, sustainability, and resilient infrastructure.