U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy visited the Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor to look at recent expansion projects and discuss funding for Great Lakes waterways. The visit comes during an unprecedented era of federal and state investment in the Great Lakes region.

Expansion Project

The Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor is uniquely positioned to handle this influx of capital. Located within a 12-hour drive of 80 percent of the U.S. population, the hub offers unparalleled logistics access. It connects local Midwestern businesses directly to global markets via the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway, links seamlessly to the national inland waterways network, and is serviced by 16 different railroads operating out of the greater Chicago region.

The port is currently putting the finishing touches on a massive $100 million expansion project. Key developments nearing completion include a new international terminal, enhanced infrastructure, and the imminent reopening of one of the largest grain export facilities located on the Great Lakes, providing critical market access for Hoosier farmers.

Economic Impact

The economic stakes of these developments are big. Indiana’s northern Lake Michigan border currently ranks as the number-one Great Lakes maritime economy, while its southern Ohio River border holds the title of the number-one U.S. inland port. Collectively, the Ports of Indiana generates $8.7 billion in annual economic impact and directly supports 49,000 jobs across the state.

Ports of Indiana CEO Jody Peacock credited federal transportation grants for supercharging this development. “Federal transportation grants have served as catalysts for unprecedented growth in Indiana’s three ports – creating jobs, driving investments, and strengthening supply chains,” Peacock stated.

Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.