Ports of Indiana ship second largest tonnage in its 64-year history: Report

The Ports of Indiana achieved its second-highest cargo tonnage in history in 2024, shipping 13 million tons, a 3% increase over the previous year. The Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor on Lake Michigan and two Ohio River ports saw steady growth, with Burns Harbor handling 2.8 million tons (up 5%), Jeffersonville increasing to 3.6 million tons (up 10%), and Mount Vernon managing 6.6 million tons, despite a 2% decline, still 32% higher than the four-year average, reported NWI.com.

Major commodities included coal, steel, grain, soy products, and road salt, with steel shipments up 246,000 tons and coal growing by 140,000 tons. Investments of over $200 million in public and private funding bolstered operations, with six federal grants, three new companies, and four company expansions contributing to the success. The Indiana River & Rail Terminals project also boosted cargo shipments significantly. CEO Jody Peacock highlighted the ports’ critical role in manufacturing, energy, and agriculture, noting a 50% growth in shipments since 2020 as the ports continue to expand to meet Indiana’s economic needs.