Port MacKenzie has been awarded a $7,891,044 federal BUILD Grant from the US Department of Transportation to fund the construction of a major barge ramp project.
The grant, awarded through a competitive national process, will support the development of a 60,000-square-foot barge ramp to enhance the port’s capacity for barge haul-out and loading operations. This major investment is being credited to the combined efforts of Congressman Nick Begich’s office and the Mat-Su Borough.
“Investments in foundational infrastructure like the Port MacKenzie barge ramp will pay dividends for the entire state, allowing for greater development of our resources and supporting improved capabilities within Alaska’s shipping portfolio. A new chapter of opportunity has begun for Alaska, and must to be ready to execute,” said Congressman Begich.
“This grant is a game-changer for Port MacKenzie and the Mat-Su Borough, but it’s just the beginning,” said Rep. Kevin McCabe. “This barge ramp will spark economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen Alaska’s infrastructure. Together with Congressman Begich and Mat-Su Borough leadership, we’re leveraging federal programs like BUILD to transform our region. We’re already exploring additional funding, including through the House Armed Services Committee, to fuel Port MacKenzie’s bright future.”
The Port MacKenzie Barge Ramp Project is being positioned as a strategic investment in Alaska’s long-term economic development, offering expanded access for freight and maritime industries. The new infrastructure is expected to bolster the port’s role as a vital hub for commerce, resource development, and military readiness.
Construction timelines and permitting processes are now underway, with the borough aiming to begin work as early as 2026.
Port MacKenzie has long been viewed as an underutilized asset with deep-draft capability and multimodal access, including road and rail. As Alaska’s largest industrial port with 9,033 acres (14 square miles) dedicated to commercial development, it features a 500-foot barge dock and a 1,200-foot deep-draft dock that can accommodate large vessels, including Panamax and Cape Class ships. Future plans include a rail loading facility, fuel tank farm, and potential petrochemical or LNG plant. The ongoing rail extension will offer the shortest route from Alaska’s Interior to tidewater, enhancing export efficiency for timber and mining industries. With nearly 15 acres of barge dock and vast uplands, the port is positioned as a hub for heavy industrial and bulk exports.
Officials say this new project signals the first of several planned improvements to unlock the port’s full potential.
This is great news!
I’m not very knowledgeable about ports, so …
Question: Does this mean some shipments could bypass the Anchorage port?
I hope this works out as well as the high-speed ferry project!