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Insights

Aimee Andres, Executive Director, IRPT provements, often supported by federal programs such as requesting a comprehensive database of authorized but

PIDP and EPA SmartPorts grants. unfunded projects. Yet progress has been slow, and An-

Ports and terminals are upgrading material-handling dres sees this as a critical advocacy priority.

systems, increasing throughput and reducing costs. At “We need to know where we are and what it will take the same time, they are investing in cleaner equipment to get to a reliable, sustainable system — not just for to- and higher-tier engines to reduce emissions and environ- day, but for generations,” she said.

mental impact. Beyond legislation, IRPT’s priorities for 2026 center

While public ports often receive the spotlight, Andres on business development and shipper engagement. A is quick to stress the role of private terminals. “There are goal is educating shippers—many of whom are unaware about 335 public ports in the U.S., but there are tens of of the inland system’s reach and capabilities. That effort thousands of private terminals moving freight every day,” extends overseas. she said. “They are essential to the system.” In June 2026, IRPT will lead a member delegation to Europe, including visits to ports and terminals and

The Infrastructure Challenge participation in Breakbulk Europe. The trip will also

Despite recent progress, Andres is candid about the big- include meetings with European inland port organiza- gest challenge facing IRPT members: aging infrastructure. tions and infrastructure authorities to explore market-

Locks, dams, channels and other navigation assets ing strategies such as “container-on-barge” models and — many managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engi- hinterland connectivity.

neers — have suffered from decades of underfunding. Domestically, IRPT will continue its extensive sched-

Authorized projects remain un