Ten Washington shipyards, including four shipyards in Seattle, will receive more than $7 million in federal economic stimulus money from the U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Sen. Patty Murray announced yesterday. The Office of Economic Development worked extensively with local shipyards to help them apply successfully for these funds.

In total, seventy shipyards around the country will receive $98 million in federal stimulus funds. Washington state’s $7 million slice is the largest award won by any state. The funds will be used for shipyard infrastructure improvements, including equipment and work area upgrades, as well as employee training.

“Our small shipyards are a critical piece of our domestic maritime industry — and of Washington state’s economy,” Murray said in a statement. “Especially while our economy is struggling, these grants are important to help our domestic shipping industry stay strong and competitive.”

A complete list of the Washington shipyards receiving money can be found in the Puget Sound Business Journal’s coverage of the grants.