Economic Benefits

 

FACT SHEET

The Port of Milwaukee is southeastern Wisconsin's transportation and distribution center of vital quality of life products and is a major contributor to the long-term economic stability and growth of the City of Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin.

Key Logistic Advantages:

  • The Port of Milwaukee is serviced by two major railroads (Union Pacific and Canadian Pacific)
  • NO limitation to any size vessel that can service the Great Lakes/ St. Lawrence System, either lake or foreign vessels.
  • Lifting capacity over 187 tons direct from vessel to rail, truck or barge.
  • Direct interstate highway access.
  • Inland river barges – access to the Mississippi and other inland rivers.
  • Milwaukee area tourism has increased as a result of the 2004 opening of the Lake Express passenger/auto ferry terminal (over 100,000 passengers yearly).
  • These commodities handled at the Port directly impact the long-term economic success and growth of the State of Wisconsin on a yearly basis:
  • Roughly 900,000 tons of salt each year - keeping streets, highways and sidewalks safe; serving the most traveled roads, and approximately 60-70% of the State's populated area. 
  • Approximately 500,000 tons of cement and cement products used in all areas of construction in SE Wisconsin.
  • Nearly 600,000 tons of coal is delivered by barge to three of the State's power plants. 
  • 50,000+ tons of specialty products are distributed to WI based fabricators and manufacturers.  
  • The capability to handle large cargo such as Caterpillar Mining and P&H mining shovels allows these and other large manufacturers to be competitive around the world while keeping jobs here in Wisconsin.  
  • Milwaukee's port is the third largest exporter of grain in the Great Lakes.

 

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Paul Vornholt

Director Operations and Trade

(414) 286-8130
Paul.Vornholt@milwaukee.gov