Durbin, Duckworth, Kelly, Underwood Announce $82 Million In Federal Funding For Illinois Port Upgrades

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-02) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) today announced $82,091,644 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) administered by the Maritime Administration. PIDP grants support efforts by ports and industry stakeholders to improve port and related freight infrastructure to meet the nation's freight transportation needs and ensure port infrastructure can meet anticipated growth in freight volumes.

"Today's funding is a major investment in Illinois' future," said Durbin. "Ensuring our ports move goods reliably and efficiently will support our local and regional economies. Senator Duckworth and I will continue working with our colleagues in the House for federal resources to improve and expand Illinois' infrastructure."

"Our ports play a critical role in maintaining Illinois's status as a major commerce hub," Duckworth said. "I'm proud to see this federal funding helping support a key element of our state's infrastructure. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin and our Illinois Congressional delegation to ensure our state is getting the critical infrastructure funding it deserves."

"Illinois' ports, especially the International Port in Chicago, are critical to our supply chain due to its convenient location along Lake Michigan and rivers. The funding today will go a long way to improve the port, ensure it's operating safely and efficiently, and enhance economic development. This investment is great news for the Second District and Illinois," said Kelly.

"Improving the safety and reliability of the freight that comes in and out of our community is critically important for our workers and economy here in northern Illinois," said Underwood. "I'm proud to secure these federal funds that will help local farmers and businesses, while investing in infrastructure that is sustainable and will give us a competitive edge."

Recipients of PIDP grants include:

-Village of Hennepin, IL - Hennepin Barge Terminal and Soybean Logistics Asset ($38,582,711)

-City of Chicago, IL - Illinois International Port District Landing Dock Safety and Efficiency Project ($34,508,933)

-Village of Hardin, IL - River Terminal Elevator Project ($9,000,000)