International cargoes will continue to move through the Port

CHICAGO – The Illinois International Port District (IIPD) and Port of Chicago are feeling some of the effects of a potentially crippling supply chain disruption caused by labor strikes at East Coast and Gulf ports.

Several empty shipping containers are now stuck in limbo at the Port due to the shutdown. However, international cargoes such as lumber and metal continue to move through the IIPD with no disruptions.

“Events like this highlight the need and the importance of Great Lakes shipping,” said IIPD Executive Director, Erik Varela. “The international supply chain won’t come to a full stop, in large part because of Ports like ours and others along the St. Lawrence Seaway. We’re proud to play a critical role in keeping the economy running.”

Each year, the Port contributes more than $700 million to the economy through the movement of cargo, but additional funding is needed to ensure the infrastructure keeps up with demand.

This year, the IIPD will replace warehouse roofs and update original lighting. The Port is now entering a new phase of its first-ever master plan, focused on environmental sustainability. Grant applications are also outstanding to replace aging and crumbling sections of the dock wall.

About the Illinois International Port District:

The Illinois International Port District is an Illinois municipal corporation created to promote the shipment of cargoes and commerce through its nearly 2,000 acres of industrial and recreational land on Chicago’s southeast side. The IIPD contributes more than $700 million to the economy per year through its ship and rail ports.