AAPA Seaports
Recently, the Philadelphia Shipyard won a contract with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) to build two training ships, worth around $630 million.
By Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01)
Since the founding of the United States, shipbuilding and shipyards have been critical features of our economy and infrastructure. Shipyards have always been a vital piece of our robust transportation system. They build the ships that carry our goods from overseas as well as the vessels that defend our nation.
Shipyards make international commerce possible. Over 90% of the world’s trade is carried by sea. It is, by far, the most economical way to transport goods around the world.
American shipyards and workers have always built the highest quality vessels for the federal government and private sector. Major cities across our country were built around the shipyards – Philadelphia, Los Angeles and Houston. These cities use their shipyards to build the infrastructure crucial to their trade economy, our naval strength and jobs.
Recently, Southeast Pennsylvania received a huge boost to our economy. In April, the Philadelphia Shipyard won a contract with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) to build two training ships, worth around $630 million. Through the contract, we are expected to see around 1,200 jobs come to the area. Construction is expected to begin in 2021, and end in 2023. If the government chooses to purchase three additional vessels, we could see as much as $1.5 billion generated for our regional economy. The ships being built at the shipyard will perform training exercises, support disaster relief efforts and conduct humanitarian operations.
This development also means a rebirth to the area surrounding the shipyard, bringing countless jobs and amplifying the economic impact of the MARAD contract.
The Philly Shipyard has always represented enormous economic opportunity for our residents, workers, families and businesses in Southeast Pennsylvania. For decades, the Philly Shipyard built its reputation on private sector ship construction and has received several MARAD contracts.
