FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 12, 2010

CONTACT:
Craig Thompson, Executive Director
Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin
Craig.Thompson@tdawisconsin.org or (608) 256-7044

Wisconsin’s ports play in important role in America’s marine highway

MADISON – In recognition of the contributions Wisconsin’s 20 commercial ports make to Wisconsin’s environment, economy and quality of life, Governor Jim Doyle has officially proclaimed that August 16-22 is Wisconsin Ports Week. The proclamation includes a salute to the state’s port-related industries and to the Wisconsin Commercial Ports Association (WCPA), which is holding its annual meeting in Superior on August 18-20.

Located on the three navigable waterways that border Wisconsin, the state’s ports serve as multi-modal distribution centers that link cargo-carrying vessels with our extensive land-based transportation network of highways and railroads. These ports currently generate $1.3 billion in annual economic activity and employ more than 11,000 Wisconsin workers. More than $7 billion in cargo from all over the world is transported through these ports each year – including commodities essential for agriculture, industry and business. Looking ahead, total shipments through Wisconsin’s commercial ports are expected to increase 34 percent by 2020. In addition, Wisconsin ports make it possible for ships to move freight using less fuel and generating fewer harmful emissions than any other mode of transport.

The Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin is sponsoring Wisconsin Ports Week to increase public awareness of the importance of the state’s commercial ports. The public can read the governor’s proclamation, get more facts about Wisconsin ports, and download a special Web banner and three light-hearted and informative Highway H2O public service announcements at www.tdawisconsin.org.

For more information on Wisconsin Ports Week – or to speak with an expert on Wisconsin’s waterborne industry – contact Craig Thompson, TDA executive director, at (608) 256-7044.

The Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin is a statewide alliance representing more than 400 transportation stakeholders committed to working together for the best in transportation. TDA members include businesses, labor, units of government, and organizations, as well as individuals. For more information, visit www.tdawisconsin.org or call (608) 256-7044.

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