History

Our History: Building on the River, Investing in the Future

Where We’ve Been

The Kaskaskia Regional Port District (KRPD) was established with a clear purpose: to leverage the region’s natural river assets to support commerce, industry, and economic opportunity. Situated at the confluence of the Kaskaskia and Mississippi Rivers, the Port has long served as a critical gateway for agricultural and industrial commodities moving to and from the Midwest. From its early days handling traditional bulk cargo, KRPD steadily built the infrastructure, partnerships, and operational expertise needed to support regional growth and global trade.

Where We Are Today

Today, KRPD stands as one of the leading inland ports in the United States, ranking among the top by tonnage handled annually. The Port manages a diverse mix of commodities, including grain, steel, gypsum, fly ash, and scrubber stone, supported by a unique multi-terminal configuration with integrated rail and truck access. This flexibility allows KRPD to efficiently serve a wide range of industries and customers.
National recognition followed when KRPD was named one of the “World’s Greatest” in a nationally televised series, highlighting its dynamic operations, strategic location, and role as an economic engine for the region. With key tenants such as The Material Works (TMW), Gateway FS, and SITCO, the Port continues to demonstrate operational excellence and reliability.

Where We’re Going

Looking ahead, KRPD is focused on growth, modernization, and diversification. Strategic investments in infrastructure, site development, and intermodal capabilities are positioning the Port to handle increased volumes, new bulk commodities, and specialized products. By building on its strong foundation and embracing future opportunities, KRPD is committed to remaining a vital link in the national and global supply chain while driving long-term economic development for southern Illinois and beyond.