Southeast Missouri Port Authority to get $1.8 million for improvements, repairs

The Economic Development Administration has awarded the Southeast Missouri Port Authority $1,867,500 for repairs and improvements to the rail transportation system at the port, said executive director Dan Overbey.

First, $1,316,000 will be used to place rocks around the base of earthen barriers used to protect facilities at the port from flooding.

The main rail track will be raised using $795,000. Overbey said that over time flooding has deposited mud on the rocks under the track. The muddy rocks will be removed and replaced with rocks that will better support the track. Overbey expects the rock will last between 20 and 25 years.

Finally, $379,000 will be used to construct new spur tracks. The tracks will allow for extra railcars to be parked at the port.

The Southeast Missouri Port Authority will provide a 25 percent match of $622,500.

"These projects are things we need to do will help in future years," Overbey said. "This will allow us to have less damage to flooding while saving us money in the future."

The Economic Development Administration also awarded New Bourbon Port Authority near Ste. Genevieve, Mo., $2,290,500 to construct a new high-water dock facility. The structure will allow business activity to continue during periods of high water. Some companies in the area were forced to temporarily shut down operations when last year's flooding caused outgoing shipments to cease.

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628

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