A National Maritime Gateway
The Texas A&M University System brings together one of the nation’s most comprehensive maritime research enterprises. Through TTI and partner institutions, this expertise spans engineering, science, policy and workforce development in support of U.S. ports, waterways and maritime industries.
Within this network, the Center for Ports and Waterways serves as a coordinating hub for maritime research and engagement. Based in Washington, D.C., the center links national policy, applied research and implementation to advance the U.S. port and waterway system.
In the Planning Group, TTI researchers conduct in-depth analysis on policy and regulatory issues surrounding emerging aviation technologies, provide planning support to public entities on aviation topics, and develop tools to aid general aviation airports with grant assurance compliance and economic development.
What we Do
For nearly three decades, the Center for Ports and Waterways has translated research into practical tools and analyses that support maritime infrastructure, logistics and readiness. Drawing from its foundation in Texas, the center applies this expertise to coastal, inland and Great Lakes systems across the United States.
National Focus Areas
The Center for Ports and Waterways supports planning, investment and coordination across eight interconnected focus areas. Each focus area is supported by applied research, analytical tools and decision-support resources tailored to public agencies and maritime stakeholders.
Rooted in Texas. Serving the Nation.
Texas provides one of the most complex and dynamic maritime environments in the country, making it a powerful proving ground for research that reflects challenges across the U.S. maritime system. From energy exports and container growth to inland waterways and coastal resilience, the state’s scale and diversity offer real-world insight into how ports and freight networks operate under pressure.
Building on this foundation, the Center for Ports and Waterways supports ports, agencies and industry partners nationwide through applied research, collaboration and implementation-focused analysis. We examine how decisions about individual projects affect ports, waterways, freight corridors, governance structures and funding strategies, helping leaders see the system as a whole rather than as isolated assets.
Work With Us
Learn how the Center for Ports and Waterways can support planning, investment and coordination across the nation’s port and waterway systems.
