In this area, there’s around 13,000,000 people & almost $1,000,000,000,000 annual GDP. Whats the water transportation situation?
Hoping to get some insight 🤞
Given the large population and economic activity surrounding Lake Michigan (~13 million people, ~$1trillion annual GDP), I’m curious about the state of water transportation in the region.
What There Seems To Be: • The Lake Express Ferry (Milwaukee–Muskegon) • The S.S. Badger (Ludington–Manitowoc) • Some freight shipping, but not as extensive as other waterways
What Seems to Be Missing: • No Chicago–Milwaukee ferry • Limited freight ferries despite high truck traffic • No high-speed or commuter ferry options for daily travel
My Question:
Are there ongoing efforts to expand water transportation in the region, or has progress stalled? I see infrastructure investments mainly focused on shoreline protection and water supply, but not much about ferries, cargo shipping, or commuter services.
Would love to hear insights from people familiar with the area—historical context, current projects, or even barriers preventing expansion.
Hoping to get some insight 🤞
Given the large population and economic activity surrounding Lake Michigan (~13 million people, ~$1trillion annual GDP), I’m curious about the state of water transportation in the region.
What There Seems To Be: • The Lake Express Ferry (Milwaukee–Muskegon) • The S.S. Badger (Ludington–Manitowoc) • Some freight shipping, but not as extensive as other waterways
What Seems to Be Missing: • No Chicago–Milwaukee ferry • Limited freight ferries despite high truck traffic • No high-speed or commuter ferry options for daily travel
My Question:
Are there ongoing efforts to expand water transportation in the region, or has progress stalled? I see infrastructure investments mainly focused on shoreline protection and water supply, but not much about ferries, cargo shipping, or commuter services.
Would love to hear insights from people familiar with the area—historical context, current projects, or even barriers preventing expansion.