America's Ports at Critical Juncture, Says New Report

Cities that do not invest in port and transportation infrastructure put their economies at serious risk, according to a recent report from international commercial real estate firm Colliers International. The group’s third annual North American Port Analysis was released April 8 and examines trade patterns stemming from the upcoming Panama Canal expansion. The report recommends further development of basic modes of transportation -- including inland waterways, roads and airports -- especially since the American Society of Civil Engineers recently gave America’s overall infrastructure a D+ grade. The report also found that the often-overlooked “fourth coast” Great Lakes region is the leader in bulk cargo trade, and intermodal transportation reached an all-time high in 2012 and is the "next transportation growth segment." The report also ranks the top 10 North American ports, including the fastest-growing port (Port of Virginia) and the best logistics (Georgia Port Authority). Read the complete report (here).