ILLINOIS INTERNATIONAL PORT DISTRICT

Exciting environmental pursuits are happening at the Port of Chicago!

In 1933, a joint resolution was passed by the U.S. Congress declaring May 22nd as National Maritime Day. National Maritime Day is to honor all Seafarers who “Went Down to the Sea in Ships”.  This year the IIPD joined Chicago’s Maritime community in the time-honored tradition and celebration of National Maritime Day and Blessing of the Fleet. A wreath in honor of the seafarers was blessed and laid upon the waters adjacent to Navy Pier. Following the wreath laying, all attending vessels participated in the Blessing of the Fleet. Thank you to all who attended and paid their respects to our fallen sailors.

Are you passionate about international commerce, maritime affairs, and economic development? Look no further! The ILLINOIS INTERNATIONAL PORT DISTRICT invites you to embark on an exciting journey by signing up for our newsletter today. Stay ahead of the curve with exclusive insights, updates, and news straight from the heart of the Midwest's premier port district. Whether you're a seasoned industry professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the dynamics of global trade, our newsletter offers something for everyone. Here's what you can expect: 📰 Breaking news and developments in international trade 🌐 Insightful analysis on maritime trends and economic opportunities 🚧 Updates on infrastructure projects and port operations 💡 Expert commentary from industry leaders and stakeholders Just visit our website at https://www.iipd.com/ and enter your email address to join our community of like-minded individuals. Be the first to know about new initiatives, collaborations, and advancements shaping the future of global commerce. Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay informed, inspired, and connected. Subscribe to the Illinois International Port District Newsletter today and let's navigate the seas of opportunity together! 🌊🌍🚀

Welcome IIPD Community Advisory Team (ICAT) and representatives of the Argentina Truckers Union (Santa Fe). Thank you IIPD Vice-Chair Dr. P. S. Sriraj and Executive Director Varela for leading the tours of port facilities and showcasing our environmental initiatives. Grateful for the presentations by our partners at the Wetlands Initiative, the Nature Conservancy, Epstein, and Northwestern.

Congratulations to IIPD Board Member Michelle McClendon on her selection as a Crain's Chicago Business Notable Leader in Sustainability! The IIPD is honored and proud to have Michelle serve on our Board and help guide the Port toward a more sustainable future.

Happy Earth Day 2024! The IIPD was proud to partner in our first ever Earth Day event with the FRIENDS OF BIG MARSH, Chicago Park District, The Wetlands Initiative and Friends of the Parks. On a beautiful Saturday morning IIPD Executive Director Erik Varela, Ford Calumet Environmental Center Director Steve Bell, and their staff were joined by two enthusiastic groups of volunteers from Kinder Morgan, Inc., Midwest Salt and the Citizens' Climate Lobby to help with trash removal along Stoney Island Drive and invasive vegetation removal within Square Marsh. Thank you all for your efforts and for the generous donations from IIPD tenant companies Kinder Morgan, Inc., US Glu-Lam Inc, and Midwest Salt. We look forward to partnering again for 2025!

As home to the Harborside International Golf Center, the IIPD is proud to share that our very own David Abrams, was recognized as "Hospitality Profession of the Year" during KemperSports annual leadership conference. Customer service is always #1 - Congrats to David and the rest of the Harborside team. David received the award in recognition of best-in-class attitude, initiative and enthusiasm towards guest service. Pictured with David is Harborside International General Manager T.J. Wydner. 

Earth Day 2024 is April 22nd! Come out and join us at Big Marsh Park on Saturday April 20th, as we gather to spruce up the area around Square Marsh and Lake Calumet with our friends at the Chicago Park District, Friends of the Parks, and others Use the link below to sign up and we hope to see you there! https://lnkd.in/gg2yWv86

The IIPD is proud to announce that Executive Director Erik Varela will be representing our organization in the Stakeholder Advisory Team (SAT) for Illinois Tollway’s ongoing capital planning process. As a member of the SAT, Erik will be responsible for advising and providing recommendations as the Tollway develops a capital plan that enhances regional mobility and economic opportunities. We look forward to a collaborative and productive process! Visit https://lnkd.in/gjmNDkPQ to learn more.

Hot dog! 🌭 Yesterday IIPD Chairman Ivan Solis, 10th Ward Alderman Peter Chico, and Peter Hirthe of the St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation welcomed to our docks the 1st International Vessel of the 2024 shipping season. Welcome to Chicago, Captain and crew of the Wagenborg M/V Beatrix. Photos courtesy of Stephen Sostaric. Hotdogs courtesy of NASCO! Thank you all.