Southeast Missouri Regional Port

The Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority (Semo Port) is a multi-modal river port strategically located near Scott City, Missouri, on the Mississippi River, approximately midway between St. Louis and Memphis. This port is situated 48 miles from the Ohio River and boasts a 1,800-foot slackwater harbor, facilitating efficient cargo transfer between barge, rail, and truck modalities. Semo Port is served by its own switching railroad, the Semo Port Railroad, which connects directly with two major freight rail lines—Union Pacific and Burlington Northern Santa Fe—offering competitive rail options for customers. All five major transportation modes are accessible at the port: river barge, rail, interstate highway, pipeline, and air. Facilities at the port accommodate general cargo, dry bulk commodities, and project cargo, with multiple terminals operated by private companies for smooth cargo transloading. The port region mainly handles commodities like coal, grain, petroleum products, fertilizers, and industrial/military equipment, shipping to or receiving from dozens of states and over 30 countries worldwide. The port's ongoing development includes plans for a new loop tracks terminal to enhance rail-to-barge transfer efficiency, further solidifying its role as a vital economic driver in Missouri and the wider Midwest.