SEMO Regional Port Authority to receive $19.8 million grant

Missouri U.S. Sen. Roy Blunt and U.S. Rep. Jason Smith announced Thursday the Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority in Scott City will receive a $19.8 million grant through the Department of Transportation�s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) Grant program.

�The Semo Port plays a critical role in our state�s economy, especially when it comes to moving our ag products to market,� Blunt said. �This project will help ensure the Southeast Missouri Regional Port Authority is able to continue building upon the steady growth they�ve achieved over the years. I appreciate Congressman Smith�s partnership in securing this funding, and look forward to continuing to work with the port authority to make sure they have the support they need.�

The BUILD funding will be used to finish the port loop track terminal, providing more efficient transfers between railroad unit trains and river barge transportation.

�I�ve been happy to fight for and support this project along with Sen. Blunt,� Smith said. �This investment in Southeast Missouri will allow our farmers, ranchers and workers to move more of their products to market more efficiently and boost the local economy. I�ve always believed our area is home to the finest farmers and workers in the world, and I�m excited that more businesses will be attracted to southern Missouri as we continue to bring our infrastructure into the 21st century.�