What's Happening?
Aimee Andres, Executive Director of Inland Rivers, Ports & Terminals (IRPT), has been instrumental in transforming the organization into a national advocate for freight mobility and infrastructure investment. Under her leadership, IRPT has grown to include
approximately 500 member organizations across the freight ecosystem, including public ports, private terminals, and various transportation companies. The association, headquartered in St. Louis, now operates with a geographically distributed team and focuses on business development, advocacy, and education. IRPT has played a significant role in shaping the federal Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), which now includes a 'small port, small project' category, allowing smaller ports to compete for federal funding. This initiative has allocated $112 million annually for small-port projects, significantly impacting the capabilities of inland ports.
Why It's Important?
The expansion and advocacy efforts of IRPT are crucial for the U.S. freight industry, particularly for smaller inland ports that often struggle to compete with larger coastal ports for funding and attention. By securing dedicated federal funding, IRPT has enabled these smaller ports to enhance their infrastructure and operations, which is vital for maintaining a resilient and efficient supply chain. Inland ports play a critical role in reducing transportation costs and congestion on highways, contributing to lower emissions and improved public safety. The organization's efforts to educate shippers and promote the inland system's capabilities further strengthen the national supply chain, ensuring that freight mobility remains robust and sustainable.
What's Next?
IRPT plans to continue its advocacy and business development efforts, focusing on educating shippers about the inland system's reach and capabilities. The organization is also preparing for an international delegation to Europe in June 2026 to explore marketing strategies and enhance hinterland connectivity. Domestically, IRPT will maintain its schedule of regional basin meetings and host its annual conference in Kansas City, Missouri, in September 2026. These initiatives aim to further integrate inland ports into the national and international freight networks, ensuring their continued growth and contribution to the economy.
