Kaskaskia Regional Port District

09/11/2026

Today, we remember the lives lost on September 11, 2001, and honor the courage of the first responders and all who answered the call to help. Twenty five years later, we stand with the families and communities forever changed.

We will never forget.

09/10/2026

Kaskaskia Regional Port District is proud to be featured in the American Journal of Transportation’s recent look at the continued growth and investment taking place across the St. Louis region’s port system.

The article highlights several major investments underway at KRPD, including our $10 million rail improvement project at KRPD #1 in New Athens, the $11.3 million MARAD Port Infrastructure Development Program award for the KRPD #2 South Dock project in Red Bud, and continued investment and development opportunities throughout the District.

KRPD continues to invest in infrastructure that strengthens our terminals, supports economic development, and improves connections between barge, rail, and truck transportation.

We’re proud to be part of a St. Louis regional port system that moves approximately 31 million tons of freight each year and continues to attract significant public and private investment.

Read the full article from the American Journal of Transportation below.

The St. Louis region’s four ports continue to chug along as a major Midwest economic engine, with investment, expansion and long-range planning showing no signs of losing momentum.

09/08/2026

We’re proud to share this feature from Southern Illinois Now recognizing former Kaskaskia Regional Port District General Manager Ed Weilbacher and his many years of service to KRPD and Southern Illinois.

During his 14 years leading the Port District, Ed helped advance major infrastructure investments, strengthen partnerships throughout the region, and position KRPD for continued growth as one of the nation’s leading inland ports.

The foundation Ed helped build continues to shape KRPD today, and we are grateful for his leadership, dedication, and commitment to the communities and industries we serve.

For decades, Ed Weilbacher helped shape the future of the Kaskaskia Regional Port District with a focus on long-term growth, collaboration, and opportunity.

As he retires, his impact can be seen in the partnerships he built, the infrastructure he helped advance, and the stronger foundation he leaves for the future of Southern Illinois.

Read his story in Volume 6 of NOW! Magazine.
https://loom.ly/dZYETQQ

08/14/2026

Thank you to Congressman Mike Bost for meeting with KRPD leadership to discuss the Kellogg Dock Rail Yard Rehabilitation Project. We appreciate his continued support and partnership as we work to strengthen our region’s transportation infrastructure and support economic growth.

Yesterday I met with the new general manager of the Kaskaskia Port Authority, Brent Donovan, to discuss the Kellogg Dock Rail Yard rehabilitation project. The Kaskaskia Port is an essential commercial hub providing easy access to inland ports and railyards and ensuring an efficient movement of local crops and products.

08/07/2026

Kaskaskia Regional Port District has several surplus items available through an online auction conducted by Adams Auctions.

Items include:
• Mobile home
• Multiple floating dock sections

Bidding is online now. Please visit the auction link below for photos, details, terms, and bidding information.

07/11/2026

The Kaskaskia Regional Port District proudly celebrated the groundbreaking of the KRPD #1 Rail Loop Improvement Project at our New Athens terminal.

This project, funded 100% through the State of Illinois’ Rebuild Illinois Capital Program, represents a major investment in the future of Southern Illinois.

While construction has just begun, the benefits of this investment will be felt for decades to come.

We sincerely thank everyone who joined us to celebrate this important milestone, including our state and local partners, elected officials, project team, contractors, Board of Directors, and community members. Your support and partnership are helping build a stronger future for Southern Illinois.

06/11/2026

Thank you to the St. Louis Regional Freightway for hosting an outstanding event and highlighting the importance of the Ag Coast of America. Thank you as well to the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois for the invitation.

It was a great opportunity to connect with industry leaders, economic development professionals, and transportation partners while discussing the opportunities and challenges facing inland waterways and freight transportation. The Mississippi River remains one of our nation's most important economic corridors, supporting agriculture, manufacturing, and global trade.

05/27/2026

Thank you to Southwestern Illinois Metropolitan & Regional Planning Commission for the opportunity to speak at today’s Annual Meeting.

It was great to share updates on the continued growth of the Kaskaskia Regional Port District, including ongoing infrastructure investments, transportation initiatives, and future economic development opportunities throughout Southwestern Illinois.

Thank you to all the SIMAPC Commissioners who attended the Annual Meeting this morning. It was a great turnout with a great presentation from Kaskaskia Regional Port District, Director Brent Donovan.

03/25/2026

The Kaskaskia Regional Port District (KRPD) is actively advancing its commitment to modern, sustainable infrastructure.

KRPD is currently soliciting proposals for the procurement of BABA-compliant battery-electric locomotives, a heavy-duty forklift, and associated charging infrastructure. This investment supports emissions reduction, operational efficiency, and long-term resiliency across our terminal network.

We encourage qualified vendors and partners to review the full Request for Proposals and participate in this opportunity.

View the full RFP and submission details here:
https://www.kaskaskiaport.com/public-notice/procurement-opportunities