Corn Belt Ports, Mid-America Port Commission sign Memorandum of Understanding

QUINCY — The Corn Belt Ports (CBP) and the Mid-America Port Commission (MAPC) formalized a significant partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding on May 21.

This agreement marks a pivotal step towards enhancing collaboration for mutual goals, including increased investment, economic activity and job creation within one of the nation’s largest rural regional inland ports.

The memorandum of understanding outlines a framework for both organizations to leverage their combined technical expertise and personnel resources to advocate for and secure federal, state, local government, and private investments in multi-modal and natural infrastructure.

“MAPC exists to increase economic development in rural and underserved areas in Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri through improved river infrastructure and increased use of the multi-modal infrastructure in the region to include road, rail, inland waterways, and airports. This partnership supports our strategic goals and objectives and directly supports our efforts to serve the Tri-State region. There is tremendous value in the alignment of the four rural regional ports that comprise the CBP. It makes us all more competitive when seeking investment in man-made and natural infrastructure,” Blake E. Roderick, MAPC chairman, said in a press release.

The collaboration between CBP and MAPC will bolster the region’s economic landscape, ensuring sustained growth and development. Both parties are committed to working together to attract sustained investment and drive forward-looking projects that benefit the entire region.

Corn Belt Ports represent all the federally recognized rural, regional ports within the Corn Belt’s Lock and Dam System. Through continued investment and organizing, Corn Belt Ports supports the integrity and sustainability of inland waterways. The Corn Belt Ports handle nearly 100 million tons of freight annually, with the total expected to increase year-to-year.

The Mid-America Port Commission is a key player in regional economic development. MAPC was recognized as a Top 50 Power Port by Global Trade Magazine. And, identified as a U.S. top 25 bulk cargo port in the recent annual report to Congress by the U.S. Department of Transportation. MAPC has been instrumental in helping attract over $1 billion in federal investment since its federal recognition as a U.S. Port.