Tri-City Regional Port District

The Tri-City Regional Port District, now operating as America’s Central Port, is strategically located in Granite City, Illinois, just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1959, the port was established as a special-purpose unit of government by the Illinois state legislature, aiming to enhance economic development in southwestern Illinois. Situated along the Mississippi River and adjacent to Locks No. 27 and the Chain of Rocks Canal, the port capitalizes on critical inland waterway infrastructure that connects the region to major national and international markets. Spanning over 1,200 acres, the facility provides a multimodal transportation hub, offering barge, rail, and truck access. Its significance stems not only from its logistical versatility and access to one of the country’s most heavily trafficked navigation structures, but also from its ongoing role in supporting regional freight, industrial growth, and economic impact. The port district has expanded its reach since its inception, taking on additional responsibilities after acquiring the U.S. Army Charles Melvin Price Support Center in 2000. Today, it stands as a vital node in Midwestern commerce and transportation, handling a wide range of cargo types and supporting both private and public development.