Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority

The Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority, commonly overseeing the Port of Detroit, is a pivotal hub for maritime trade and transportation in the Midwest. As Michigan’s largest inland port, it is strategically located along the Detroit River, linking the Great Lakes to international trade routes. The port supports a broad array of cargo types, including steel—its most valuable commodity—along with ores, stone, coal, and cement. Detroit's port system features several modern terminals capable of handling general, liquid, and bulk cargo, as well as passenger operations such as cruise ships and ferries. Each year, it accommodates thousands of vessel arrivals, generating significant economic activity for the region, supporting approximately 16,000 jobs and over $1 billion in economic output. The port’s infrastructure connects North America’s industrial centers with markets in Canada, Europe, and beyond, making it a critical component of both domestic and international supply chains. Its unique location on the Detroit River enables direct waterborne links to both the Atlantic and the heartland of North America, underscoring its essential role in the Midwest's logistics and industrial ecosystem.