Louisville Riverport Authority launches Master Plan

 Managed by LRA, the port is home to more than 120 companies and represents more than 8,000 jobs across the area.

Led by Kentucky-based BFW Engineering, the Master Plan will evaluate upgrades to the port’s more than 40-year-old marine terminal, strengthen rail and roadway access, improve resilience to flooding, and prepare sites for the next generation of manufacturing and logistics employers.

“This Master Plan is a major step for [the port], for Louisville and for our region,” said Steve Miller, executive director of the Louisville Riverport Authority. “It will provide a clear, practical blueprint to modernize critical infrastructure so [the port] remains competitive, resilient and ready for even more growth.”

The planning effort is supported by up to $1 million in federal planning funds, secured by Congressman Morgan McGarvey, as well as a $250,000 match from LRA. The federal funds are administered through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration as part of a Port Infrastructure Development Program grant.

“Louisville’s future depends on smart investments in economic engines like the Louisville Riverport — the kind that keep our region competitive and support the good-paying jobs our families depend on,” said Congressman McGarvey. “I’m grateful to the Louisville Riverport Authority, BFW Engineering, and Mayor Greenberg for coming together on this critical project.”   The Louisville Riverport is one of the region’s critical economic engines. Located in southwest Jefferson County, the port’s businesses create more than $8.2 billion annual revenues estimated and nearly $5 billion annual exports estimated.

The port is also home to U.S. Foreign‑Trade Zone (FTZ) #29, administered by LRA, which gives businesses cost-saving tools to compete in global markets.

“Louisville Riverport is a cornerstone of Louisville’s leadership in manufacturing, logistics and global trade,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. “This Master Plan positions Riverport for long-term growth that will keep our city competitive, support our local businesses, and create jobs and opportunity for our people.”

Over the next year, the planning team will engage the port’s businesses, industry partners, neighborhood groups and community organizations in Southwest Louisville and provide predictable updates throughout the process.

“We’re honored to partner with the Louisville Riverport Authority on this transformational master planning effort, said Maegan Mansfield, PE, chief growth officer, BFW | Marcum Engineers. “What we saw in Louisville from our very first visit was exceptional potential – the ingredients are all here to create a true focal point for economic growth that will benefit not just the city, but the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.”