Chicot-Desha Metropolitan Port Authority

The Chicot-Desha Metropolitan Port Authority oversees Yellow Bend Port, a strategically important inland port on the Mississippi River in southeastern Arkansas. This facility serves as a vital link for the transport of agricultural products, industrial goods, and bulk commodities between the Midwest and global markets via the Gulf of Mexico. The port’s location on the Mississippi River enables it to handle significant barge traffic, supporting both regional and national supply chains with efficient, cost-effective waterborne transportation. While its primary operations focus on bulk and breakbulk cargo, the port is a key component of Arkansas’s maritime infrastructure, contributing to the state’s economic development and trade competitiveness. Its capacity and connectivity make it an essential node for shippers seeking reliable access to the inland waterway system. The port’s importance is further underscored by its receipt of state grants for facility improvements, reflecting ongoing commitment to maintenance and modernization.