The Illinois Valley Regional Port District is a crucial multimodal logistics hub located in north-central Illinois along the Illinois River. Serving Bureau, Putnam, and LaSalle counties, the district spans 38.5 miles of riverbank and leverages its strategic access via Marine Highway 55 for efficient waterborne commerce. The port district benefits from excellent connectivity, including direct service by two Class I railroads (BNSF and Norfolk Southern), several Class II and shortline railroads, and a dense network of highways such as I-39, I-80, and US 6. The Illinois Valley Regional Airport (VYS, Peru, IL) adds an air transport component, enhancing the district’s appeal for intermodal operations. Key commodities handled include food products, coal, and petroleum, reflecting the area's agricultural and industrial strengths. Operations are structured to support both regional industrial employment and economic development, underpinned by advanced facilities and access to major inland shipping lines. This position makes the Illinois Valley Regional Port District a significant inland port system, facilitating the efficient movement of goods across multiple transportation modes.
Operating hours vary by facility and terminal; typical barge and terminal operations are Monday through Friday, 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Illinois Valley Regional Airport is open daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Major carriers serving this port