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March 2005
Maritime Research Institute at UMD receives federal grant
The Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute was awarded $750,000 as part of the recent federal omnibus appropriations bill. The award was announced by Representatives James L. Oberstar of Minnesota and Dave Obey of Wisconsin.
The institute is a joint project between the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) and the University of Wisconsin-Superior (UWS). The funding will be administered by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), which is an agency within the Department of Transportation that is responsible for promoting the development of a merchant marine sufficient to meet the needs of national defense and the domestic and foreign commerce of the United States.
"This funding will be very useful in furthering research about the unique characteristics of the Great Lakes maritime industry and trade through the region's waterways," said Oberstar. "Research by UMD and UWS on issues such as the expanded use of freight ferries, improved mobility, and regional supply chain efficiency will provide valuable insight into how to maximize the many opportunities the Great Lakes provide. With the expertise offered by UMD-UWS' Great Lakes Maritime Research Institute, we can enhance the nation's maritime infrastructure," he said.
"I'm pleased that we have been able to secure funding for this initiative," Obey added. "Conducting a study of a Lake Superior cross-border marine transportation system with the ability to transport commerce and passengers safely and economically will lay the groundwork for future economic development for the Twin Ports and the region. The joint effort by UWD and UWS will also serve as a model for future university, industry, and government partnerships," he said.
James P. Riehl, the co-director of the Institute and dean of the UMD College of Science and Engineering, calls the funding "the perfect match of UMD's strong engineering programs and the UWS transportation and logistics center. Our combined research capabilities will make significant contributions to the Great Lakes transportation system."