Ports of Indiana has been awarded a $25 million federal “BUILD” grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to support a $32 million expansion of its Jeffersonville port. This grant is the largest federal award in Ports of Indiana’s 65-year history – more than double the previous high for any Indiana port. It also represents the Jeffersonville port’s largest single infrastructure investment since opening in 1985, more than doubling the facility’s general cargo footprint and increasing the port’s lift capacity from 35 tons to 300 tons. 

“Indiana’s ports are essential to keeping our economy moving, and this $25 million BUILD grant is a major investment in our state’s future,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun. “Expanding our Jeffersonville port’s capacity to move cargo by river, rail and truck will create new opportunities for Indiana manufacturers, farmers and businesses while supporting high-quality jobs across Southern Indiana.” 

The BUILD program (Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development) is administered by USDOT to provide grants for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. This week, USDOT awarded $1.73 billion in BUILD grants to 127 projects from 1,200 applications.  

The Jeffersonville grant will fund a major redevelopment of an underutilized area along the Ohio River into a high-volume multimodal terminal. The project includes a new 300-ton crane system, a 6,500-square-foot dock, and a 22,000-square-foot warehouse designed to improve operational efficiency and expand heavy-lift and breakbulk capabilities.  

“This is a transformational project for our Jeffersonville port and the entire Southern Indiana region,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “We are deeply grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for this award, and to our federal, state and local port partners who helped make this project possible. This investment will dramatically increase the port’s capacity to handle larger steel and project cargoes, increase storage and operational efficiencies, lower transportation costs for regional industry, and strengthen Jeffersonville’s position as one of the Midwest’s premier multimodal freight hubs for decades to come.” 

Once complete, the expansion will increase lift capacity by more than 800%, double barge-rail transloading capacity, and establish the port’s first general cargo facility located outside the floodplain. The project is expected to be completed in 2028. 

“Strong infrastructure is essential to a strong economy, and this BUILD grant is an important investment in Indiana’s future,” said Congresswoman Erin Houchin. “The improvements at Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville will increase efficiency, strengthen supply chains, and enhance the port’s ability to serve businesses throughout our state and the Midwest. I was proud to advocate for this project and congratulate everyone whose hard work made this achievement possible.”

Supporting Quotes: 

“Indiana’s ports are critical to our state’s economy and America’s supply chains, and this historic BUILD grant will ensure the Ports of Indiana-Jeffersonville is well-positioned to meet growing demand for decades to come,” said U.S. Sen. Todd Young. “I’m proud to support projects that create jobs, improve infrastructure, and reinforce Indiana’s role as a national logistics leader.” 

“This investment is a major win for Indiana,” said U.S. Sen. Jim Banks. “Modernizing the Jeffersonville port will strengthen American manufacturing, support Hoosier jobs, and keep Indiana at the forefront of logistics and commerce.”

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Mount Vernon port’s largest project in 20 years will triple soybean handling capacity

MOUNT VERNON, Ind. (May 19, 2026) – State and local officials today celebrated the groundbreaking of Consolidated Grain and Barge Co.’s (CGB) $47 million expansion at Ports of Indiana-Mount Vernon, the largest investment at Indiana’s largest port in more than 20 years.  Consolidated Grain and Barge Co. is a wholly owned subsidiary of CGB Enterprises, Inc.

The project is designed to triple grain handling capacity of CGB’s soybean processing operations at the Ohio River port. CGB currently processes approximately 50 million bushels of soybeans annually at Mount Vernon, producing soybean oil, meal, and soy hulls that are shipped to livestock producers and food companies around the world.

The expansion includes new grain storage and truck unloading facilities, as well as a conveyor system that transfers grain between multiple sites at the port. The project will increase the facility’s storage volume by 4.25 million bushels and boost truck unloading capacity by 200 percent. Construction is expected to be completed in 2027.

“CGB has been a long-standing leader in Indiana agriculture, and this investment at Ports of Indiana-Mount Vernon strengthens two of our greatest assets – world-class infrastructure and a leading agriculture economy,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun. “Expanding CGB’s port facilities helps Hoosier farmers move crops more efficiently to global markets, supports rural communities, and reinforces Indiana’s leadership in agriculture and trade.”

CGB’s soybean volume at Mount Vernon has increased more than 60 percent over the past decade, driving the need for expanded capacity and improved truck flow. The new unloading system will allow entire truckloads to discharge without repositioning, reducing congestion on port roads, shortening turnaround times, and lowering transportation costs for local farmers.

“We strongly value our relationship with the state of Indiana, Ports of Indiana and the Mount Vernon community, and this investment centers on serving our farmers and the local community,” said CGB Enterprises, Inc. Executive Vice President Tom Malecha. “By improving traffic flow and reducing wait times, CGB is making soybean delivery at Mount Vernon more efficient while positioning the facility for the future. This port is an ideal location for growing our business and continuing to expand the value we bring to the agricultural, energy and food sectors.”

CGB also manages grain merchandising as well as ethanol and DDG transload facilities at the port. Founded in 1969, CGB operates more than 110 grain facilities across the Midwest and beyond with integrated barge, rail, and truck transportation capabilities.

“CGB is a world-class company that has been a tremendous partner at our Ohio River ports for nearly three decades,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “This investment demonstrates CGB’s strong commitment to Indiana agriculture, our port, and future growth opportunities that support local farmers. It also highlights the strategic competitive advantages Indiana’s ports create through robust barge and rail connections in the heart of one of the nation’s most productive agricultural regions.”

Indiana is one of the nation’s leading soybean-producing states, and the Mount Vernon port serves as a major gateway for agricultural exports. The port handles approximately 5 million tons of cargo annually, including grain, soy products, ethanol, fertilizer, steel, and project cargo. The 1,200-acre port has connections to five Class I railroads and is part of the nation’s busiest inland port district.

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Ports of Indiana and Indiana University Southeast have partnered to launch a logistics internship to support local workforce needs and introduce college students to port operations. In May, the program’s first intern, Jonas Powers, will begin a 15-week internship, gaining hands-on experience in transportation, logistics, agribusiness, warehousing, and port operations.

Ports of Indiana operates three ports, which support 50,000 jobs and generate $8.7 billion in annual economic impact for the state. This pilot program will be expanded to offer internships in multiple port locations through university partnerships designed to meet Indiana’s growing logistics workforce needs.

Powers is a second-year student from Corydon, Ind., majoring in Supply Chain Management. During the internship, he will work with Ports of Indiana and four port companies that play a key role in Indiana’s global trade and freight logistics.

“Indiana’s logistics industry depends on a strong workforce, and that starts by helping young people see the exciting career opportunities available in our ports and supply chains,” said Jody Peacock, CEO for Ports of Indiana. “Through our partnership with IU Southeast, we can introduce students to high-demand careers while raising awareness of the vital roles ports play in connecting Indiana businesses to global markets and driving long-term economic growth.”

Indiana University Southeast, located in New Albany, offers top quality and nationally accredited programs and has a track record of strong student outcomes—with 99 percent of graduates going on to employment or graduate school. The partnership reflects the university’s commitment to connecting students with meaningful professional opportunities in the region.

“IU Southeast is excited to partner with Ports of Indiana and offer our students this valuable internship experience,” said Dr. Debbie Ford, Chancellor of Indiana University Southeast. “Partnerships like this create powerful opportunities for our students to connect their classroom learning with real-world experience. By working alongside respected employers, our students gain valuable professional skills while strengthening the talent pipeline that helps our regional economy grow.”

The maritime industry employs 650,000 workers in the U.S., and one out of every five Indiana jobs is related to logistics. In addition, Ports of Indiana is advancing significant job growth initiatives, investing in a $100 million capital program, and developing new multimodal terminals at all three ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan.

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PORTAGE, Ind., May 1, 2026 – On Thursday, April 23, the Northwest Indiana Forum and Ports of Indiana welcomed an international delegation representing 10 countries and provinces to the Ports of Indiana – Burns Harbor, highlighting the region’s growing role in global trade, logistics, and industrial development.

The visit was conducted in partnership with the Chicago International Trade Commissioners’ Association (CITCA) and the Québec Government Office in Chicago. Delegates participated in a guided tour of the port, gaining firsthand insight into its scale, multimodal connectivity, and economic impact.

The program began with welcome remarks from Port Director Ryan McCoy, followed by a comprehensive tour of the Burns Harbor facility. The agenda continued with a series of presentations highlighting Northwest Indiana’s competitive advantages and strategic priorities. Heather Ennis, President & CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum, provided an overview of the region’s economic landscape, with emphasis on emerging initiatives in quantum computing, defense, and data center development.

Additional presentations underscored the region’s integrated approach to global competitiveness. Dan Vicari, Executive Director of the Gary/Chicago International Airport, highlighted the airport’s international access and foreign trade zone capabilities. Lisa Daugherty, President & CEO of the Center of Workforce Innovations, shared insights on workforce development efforts designed to meet the needs of a growing economy. Dexter Salenda, Foreign Trade and Economic Development Director for the Ports of Indiana, presented on emerging shipping container initiatives that further strengthen the region’s logistics infrastructure.

“Québec is Indiana’s second largest Canadian trading partner, with bilateral trade totaling $3.1 billion USD,” said Jean François Hould, Chief Representative for the Government of Québec in the Midwest. “Northwest Indiana is strategically positioned within North American trade corridors, as the Ports of Indiana Container Project and the Gary Chicago International Airport expansion align with major logistics investments in Montréal and Québec City, strengthening globally competitive cross-border supply chains.”

Together, the tour and presentations reinforced Northwest Indiana’s position as a logistics and industrial hub—strategically investing in infrastructure and talent to compete on a global stage. Notably, the Ports of Indiana – Burns Harbor provides direct access from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, offering global reach from the heart of the Midwest.

For more information about Northwest Indiana’s economic development initiatives, visit the Northwest Indiana Forum at www.nwiforum.org. To learn more about the Chicago International Trade Commissioners’ Association, visit www.citca.org. To learn more about the Ports of Indiana, visit www.portsofindiana.com.

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ST. LOUIS, MO —April 16, 2026 — Inland Rivers, Ports & Terminals (IRPT) is pleased to announce the election of two respected industry leaders to its Board of Directors, representing the Great Lakes Basin. Joe Liebau of Foth and Jody Peacock of Ports of Indiana were elected to serve in these roles. Their election reflects the continued strength, diversity, and expertise that define IRPT’s membership across the inland river system.

Joe and Jody bring extensive experience in environmental policy, infrastructure funding, economic development, and port leadership to the Board. Together, they will represent and serve IRPT members across the Great Lakes Basin, supporting a diverse network of ports, terminals, industrial operators, and transportation stakeholders that strengthen domestic supply chains and international trade throughout the region.

IRPT is governed by a Board of Directors composed of five officers, Basin Directors, and Directors At Large. Basin Directors are elected by Members within designated navigable river basins, ensuring that leadership reflects the unique needs, priorities, and opportunities of each region. The full Board, consisting of five Officers and twenty-five Basin Directors, represents some of the most respected and forward thinking professionals in the industry, chosen by IRPT Members for their dedication to advancing the inland waterways.

The election of Joe Liebau and Jody Peacock underscores IRPT’s mission to champion a strong, connected, and competitive inland river transportation system. Their leadership, insight, and regional perspective will help guide the Association’s initiatives, advocacy, and strategic direction in the years ahead.

About Joe: Joe Liebau, Jr. serves as Senior Strategic Advisor with Foth’s Environment Solutions division, where he develops relationships and guides strategy to help clients solve complex science, engineering, and infrastructure challenges. He brings extensive experience in federal funding, project delivery, and environmental policy, having previously served as Chief of Staff for the Environmental Protection Agency in Chicago, where he oversaw Region 5 operations and supported major Great Lakes restoration, grants, and clean water initiatives. His background also includes leadership roles with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and private consulting focused on large-scale construction and demolition projects. Joe’s expertise provides valuable perspective on funding, permitting, and long-term project development across the Great Lakes region.

About Jody: Jody Peacock serves as Chief Executive Officer of Ports of Indiana, a statewide port authority operating three ports on the Ohio River and Lake Michigan that generate $8.7 billion annually in economic impact. Appointed CEO in 2023 after more than two decades of leadership within the organization, he oversees three ports, 2,800 acres of multimodal industrial parks, three shortline railroads, and a statewide network of foreign-trade zones. Under his leadership, Ports of Indiana has achieved record growth, expanded major cargo operations, secured significant federal grant funding, and strengthened international port partnerships. A lifelong Hoosier and strong advocate for maritime and economic development, Jody brings broad strategic leadership to the Great Lakes Basin and the inland waterways industry.

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U.S. Steel cargo shipment ends one of shortest winter closures for Great Lakes shipping

Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor celebrated the start of the 2026 international shipping season Saturday with the arrival of the Ocean7 Ranger. The ocean vessel completed a 52-day voyage carrying equipment for facility improvements at U.S. Steel Gary Works, the largest integrated steel mill in North America.

The 2026 opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway to ocean vessels marked one of the shortest winter closures in history, totaling just 69 days from Jan. 12 until March 22.

To commemorate the occasion, Burns Harbor Port Director Ryan McCoy presented the Ports of Indiana “Steel Stein” to Captain Ilia Kalachov on board the Ranger. The presentation celebrates the first ocean vessel’s arrival and Northwest Indiana’s role as “The Steel Capital of North America.”

“Our port operates year-round, handling barge, rail, and truck shipments, but the arrival of the year’s first  ocean vessel is a signature moment,” McCoy said. “It represents Burns Harbor’s connection  to the world and new global trade opportunities for local companies. This was also one of the shortest winter closures of the Seaway on record, which underscores the capability and opportunity to expand our shipping season. Adding new icebreakers and practical technologies to extend the shipping window for vessels like the Ocean7 Ranger will allow our Great Lakes economy to better compete in global markets.”

Ocean7 Ranger is a general cargo carrier owned and operated by German ship management company HAMMONIA Reederei. The ship arrived at Indiana’s Lake Michigan port 52 days after departing from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, passing through the Pacific Ocean, Panama Canal, Atlantic Ocean, and Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway.

The Ranger delivered a 63-ton dewatering drum that is being transferred from ship to dock, and then to barge for transport across the lake to U.S. Steel. Stevedore Logistec executes the port’s heavy lift transfers with support by local workers from the International Longshoremen’s Association and International Union of Operating Engineers.

The Ranger, a general cargo vessel built in 2005 by Volharding Shipyards in the Netherlands, is 441 feet long and 72 feet wide and has a dead weight tonnage capacity of 10,508 metric tons.

Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor handles over 2 million tons of cargo each year, including steel, steel-related materials, limestone, coke, salt, fertilizer, minerals, and iron ore.

The St. Lawrence Seaway opened March 22 for the 68^th international shipping season.  The Seaway routinely closes for up to three months during the winter for icy conditions and maintenance on the system’s 15 locks. However, groups are calling for implementation of new technologies, increased investment and added icebreaking capabilities that would extend the shipping season to promote growth in regional economies, new container shipping lines, and Great Lakes trade.

In 2026, the Indiana General Assembly unanimously  passed House Concurrent Resolution 9, calling for “all relevant agencies and  stakeholders to work collaboratively to explore extending the Great Lakes-St.  Lawrence Seaway navigation season to advance Indiana’s economic prosperity,  grow exports, and support Hoosier jobs.” The resolution, authored by  Representative Dave Abbott, had 26 bipartisan coauthors. (Resolution Link)

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Ports of Indiana has opened a new federally approved bonded storage facility at its Mount Vernon port, marking a major expansion of capabilities and enabling the port to handle its first barge shipment of aluminum.

The new facility – developed in approximately six weeks to meet urgent customer demand – positions Mount Vernon as a competitive Midwest hub for duty-deferred storage of high-value commodities. The milestone shipment, totaling approximately 1,650 tons of aluminum, arrived today after traveling by ocean vessel from Asia to New Orleans and then by barge to Indiana. The aluminum will be distributed to Midwest manufacturers, where it will be used in a wide range of applications, including automotive, construction, and packaging materials.

“Opening a federally approved bonded facility within six weeks after a customer inquiry is unheard of in our world and a tremendous accomplishment,” said Jody Peacock, CEO of Ports of Indiana. “The collaboration and efficiency of our port team, our terminal operator, and U.S. Customs is creating real-time supply-chain solutions and competitive advantages for our customers.”

Bonded storage areas are secure, government-authorized facilities where imported goods can be stored without immediate payment of duties or taxes. This allows businesses to defer those costs for up to five years, improving cash flow and enabling more flexible supply chain strategies. The Mount Vernon bonded facility includes both indoor and outdoor storage, featuring a 20,000-square-foot warehouse and one-acre storage yard. To meet federal requirements, Ports of Indiana installed approximately 800 feet of fencing, security cameras, access controls and aggregate laydown yard.

The facility is operated by Indiana River & Rail Terminals, the largest general cargo operator on the Ohio River, which partners with Ports of Indiana to operate terminals in Mount Vernon and Jeffersonville.

“Through our partnership with Ports of Indiana, we’ve created new opportunities for growth and expanded our ability to serve customers,” said Jonathan Lamb, CEO of Indiana River & Rail Terminals. “This facility opens the door to new cargoes in metals, energy, and technology sectors, and we see strong potential for continued expansion.”

The bonded designation creates a new supply chain route that leverages Indiana’s absence of a state inventory tax, allowing companies to defer both federal duties and state-level carrying costs until goods leave the facility.

“This new facility creates a long-term competitive advantage for our customers and our community,” said Jason May, Port Director at Mount Vernon. “It builds on our strengths in cargo handling, multimodal transportation, and Indiana’s pro-business environment. We’re excited to attract new industries and cargoes that don’t traditionally use our ports.”

Mount Vernon’s capabilities support efficient handling and distribution of bulk and breakbulk cargoes, including the use of a 60-ton overhead crane to transload shipments from barge to truck or rail. The port offers access to five Class I railroads, 10 barge berths, fleeting capacity for over 400 barges, and 600 acres available for development. Its location near the median center of the U.S. population and the I-69 Canada-Mexico trade corridor provides strategic advantages for reaching Midwest markets.

The Mount Vernon bonded facility is designed to support industries handling high-value or high-tariff goods, including metals, automotive, energy, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage products. In addition to aluminum, the facility is capable of handling a wide range of commodities via barge, rail, and truck, further enhancing the port’s multimodal capabilities and expanding its role as a key logistics and trade hub for the Midwest.

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Maritime trade veteran Brian Dooley to lead Indiana’s trade initiative to develop new European partnerships for fast-growing U.S. inland port system

Ports of Indiana has opened its first international trade office in Ireland to grow cargo shipments and support the launch of a direct Europe-Indiana container service. Maritime trade veteran, Brian Dooley, will lead the new European Trade Office, based in Cork and Kildare, Ireland.

In 2024, Ireland made $32.4 billion of shipments to Indiana, according to the World Institute for Strategic Economic Research, more than triple any other country’s total. However, most of these shipments did not use Indiana’s ports. Ports of Indiana is preparing to open its first container terminal and recently signed partnership agreements with Port of Cork, the fastest growing container port in Ireland, and Port of Antwerp-Bruges, the world’s 13th largest container port, which offers existing liner service to Indiana for general cargo.

“Europe is a critical trading partner for Ports of Indiana and establishing an Ireland office is part of our strategic growth initiative that will allow us to better serve existing customers and develop new container shipments between Indiana and Europe,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “The extensive experience and relationships that Brian Dooley brings to our team will help expand our existing liner service to Antwerp and provide more efficient direct shipments for Ireland-Indiana trade.”

Dooley has nearly 30 years of experience in the maritime, logistics, and business development sectors. He previously served as Business Support Manager at Port of Cork for five years, and as Operations Supervisor at MTL Peelports in Dublin, Ireland, for nine years. Prior to that, he served as Assistant Operations Manager at Marine Terminals Ltd. for more than a decade and began his maritime career as a Crane Operator with Coastal Container Line Limited.

“There is significant interest in Ireland and European markets about Ports of Indiana’s expansion plans and the opportunity to develop a direct container service with the U.S. Midwest,” Dooley said. “I am truly excited to join the great team at Ports of Indiana and help develop new partnerships throughout Europe. Indiana has a unique port system and the trade connections with Ireland present a tremendous opportunity for future growth and creating efficiencies by better leveraging maritime transportation routes through the Great Lakes and U.S. river system.”

Ports of Indiana is developing the Burns Harbor Container Terminal on Lake Michigan to provide the only direct ocean container service into the largest U.S. container market, the Chicago metro area. Trial shipments are expected to start later this year.

Indiana’s three ports handle shipments for more than 30 countries through the Great Lakes Seaway and inland river system and contribute $8.7 billion in annual economic activity while supporting 50,000 total jobs. Ports of Indiana is a statewide port authority that operates three ports and 2,800 acres of land on Lake Michigan and the Ohio River. The fast-growing inland port system has doubled in size within five years and is conducting a $100 million expansion of dock, rail, and roadway capabilities.

Indiana ranks 13th among U.S. states in maritime shipments, handling 50 million tons annually by barge, lakers, and ocean vessels. Indiana has the largest U.S. inland port district along the Ohio River and the largest U.S. maritime economy in the Great Lakes.

Dooley will serve as Ports of Indiana’s primary point of contact for European trade development, identifying and pursuing new trade opportunities, partnerships, and international growth strategies.

“Having someone of Brian’s caliber representing Ports of Indiana in Europe is a tremendous benefit to our business development efforts,” said Brady Jacoba, Chief Commercial Officer for Ports of Indiana. “He brings considerable knowledge, energy, and a deep understanding of European container market and Ireland trade opportunities. Brian will be instrumental in providing new European connections to shippers, carriers, government officials, and trade events that will greatly improve our relationships and market intelligence in strategic areas.”

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Veteran political strategist brings decade of Indiana public policy experience to state port authority

Ports of Indiana has appointed Josh Webb as Director of Government Affairs to lead legislative strategy and advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels.

Webb brings more than a decade of experience in Indiana politics, public policy, and government operations. Most recently, he served as State Director for Americans for Prosperity-Indiana, where he led grassroots advocacy efforts, political operations, and government affairs. His career also includes service as Deputy State Director for United States Senator (now Governor) Mike Braun and work for former Congressman Luke Messer, where he held positions as both policy advisor in Washington, D.C., and District Director in Indiana.

“We’re pleased to have someone with Josh’s extensive experience lead our government affairs efforts at this critical time for the maritime industry,” said Jody Peacock, CEO of Ports of Indiana. “As we strive to expand our economic value to the state and advance critical infrastructure priorities, Josh’s leadership will be instrumental in building strong relationships and advancing new policy initiatives involving America’s Maritime Action Plan, shipbuilding, economic development, and global trade.”

“I am excited to join the extraordinary team at Ports of Indiana and build upon the critical mission the organization serves for the people of Indiana. I look forward to helping advance key policies and developing strong partnerships that bolster Indiana’s world-class port system, generate sustained economic growth and enhance trade connectivity for Hoosiers,” said Webb.

A native of East Central Indiana, Webb earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Ball State University and completed a graduate certificate in Public Management from Indiana University Indianapolis. He currently resides in Noblesville with his wife, Natalie, and their two sons and daughter.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. (February 3, 2026) — The American Great Lakes Ports Association (AGLPA), including members Ports of Indiana, the Illinois International Port District (IIPD), and Port Milwaukee, in partnership with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation (GLS), announced today that they will begin a comprehensive market analysis aimed at expanding cargo movement between the Great Lakes and Inland Waterways system.

Together, the Great Lakes and Inland Waterways move close to 700 million tons of cargo each year, supporting critical American industries including steelmaking, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and other cargo. At the intersection of these two systems is one of the most important industrial and freight hubs in the United States. Despite being two of the world’s busiest inland shipping corridors, only a small percentage of cargo currently moves between the Great Lakes and inland rivers.

The study will examine opportunities to increase waterborne commerce by leveraging this river–lake connection, evaluating market demand, identifying promising cargo flows, and exploring the infrastructure and operational needs required to support greater integration.

“In alignment with President Trump and Transportation Secretary Duffy’s commitment to strengthening U.S. supply chains, we recognize that enhancing the connection between the Great Lakes and our Inland Waterways is a vital step toward securing America’s big and beautiful economic future. By improving the flow of goods—especially the exports that power the Heartland—we’re not only boosting economic growth today but reinforcing our nation’s long-term competitiveness for generations to come,” said Mike McCoshen, GLS Administrator.

AGLPA President, Captain Paul C. LaMarre III, said, “For too long, the connection between the Great Lakes and the Inland Waterways has been an underutilized asset in America’s freight network. This study will help identify the cargoes, markets, and infrastructure needed to make river–lake shipping more efficient and commercially viable. AGLPA and our member ports are committed to a data-driven approach that strengthens maritime commerce and reinforces our region’s vital role in the nation’s supply chains.”

The study’s local match is being provided by the three major Lake Michigan ports in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. These states account for 65% of the economic activity related to U.S. Great Lakes shipping and also handle millions of tons via river barge moving through the Chicago shipping canal and the Mississippi River system.

“We’re excited to join this unprecedented partnership to explore how we can better connect two of the busiest inland shipping corridors in the world,” said Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock. “Maritime transportation can be further leveraged in the megaregion formed by Chicago, Milwaukee, and Northwest Indiana to improve freight transportation, lower emissions, reduce highway congestion, and grow economies throughout the Great Lakes and inland waterways systems.”

“The Port of Chicago already moves more than 13 million tons of cargo through the port,” said Erik Varela, Executive Director of the IIPD. “Increasing river–lake cargo flows would not only create significant economic opportunity for our region and the country but will also do so in the most energy efficient manner.”

“Port Milwaukee is the northern most approved point on the Great Lakes with access to the Inland River System and plays a key role in serving manufacturers, agribusiness, and distributors across the Upper Midwest,” said Benjamin Timm, Port Director at Port Milwaukee. “This study will help us identify new ways to move cargo efficiently and strengthen our role in the national freight network.”

Conducted by CPCS Transcom Inc. in collaboration with the AGLPA, GLS, and member ports, the study will identify opportunities to expand cargo movements between barges and lake vessels, assess operational and infrastructure needs, and outline strategies to enhance the efficiency and viability of transloading operations. It will also examine how expanded maritime service could improve supply chain reliability, support key industries, create jobs, and relieve pressure on congested highway corridors.

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