BENTON HARBOR

• USBEH
• Latitude: 42.1105
• Longitude: -86.482
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: Benton Harbor MI US

Benton Harbor, located along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in Southwest Michigan, is a city in Berrien County. It's part of a metropolitan area often referred to as the Twin Cities, which includes the city of St. Joseph. While historically an industrial hub, its role as a marine port is less prominent today compared to major Great Lakes ports. Below are some details:

Benton Harbor Marine Port Overview:

1. Geographic Location:

   • Situated at the mouth of the St. Joseph River where it meets Lake Michigan.
   • Coordinates: Approximately 42.1167° N latitude, 86.4500° W longitude.

2. Waterways:

   • Access to Lake Michigan, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world.
   • Connection via the St. Joseph River navigable sections.

3. Infrastructure:

   • Docks/Piers: Some commercial and recreational docks available.
   • Marinas: Several marinas serve recreational boating and yachting.
   • Facilities: Limited commercial port facilities compared to major ports but includes infrastructure for smaller shipping operations and cargo handling.

4. Cargo and Shipping:

   • Historically more active with industrial shipment; current larger shipments might use nearby larger ports.
   • Typically handles smaller commercial cargo and local economic goods.
   • Focus on recreational boating and local trade rather than large-scale commercial shipping.

5. Economy and Usage:

   • Economic Activity: Previously an industrial town, now diversifying with increased focus on tourism, agriculture, and small business ventures.
   • Recreational Use: High recreational use with activities such as boating, fishing, and leisure cruises, which impacts local tourism positively.

6. Accessibility:

   • Road Links: Connected by Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 31, facilitating easy land transport in and out of the port.
   • Air Links: Closest major airport is South Bend International Airport in Indiana.

7. Nearby Amenities:

   • St. Joseph City: Offers cultural, dining, and lodging facilities contributing to the tourism appeal of the region.
   • Beaches and Parks: Local beaches, parks, and historical sites attract visitors to the area.

8. Authorities and Regulations:

   • Managed under local port authorities with adherence to federal maritime regulations and environmental protections.

9. Future Developments:

   • Potential for port expansion or increased commercial activity aligned with regional economic strategies.
   • Investment in infrastructure could potentially boost port usage.

Specifications Snapshot:

• Depth of Waterways: Generally suitable for smaller commercial vessels and recreational boats.
• Port Facilities: Limited commercial port facilities; ample recreational marinas.
• Cargo Handling Equipment: Basic equipment for smaller-scale cargo operations.
• Annual Throughput: Lower compared to larger Great Lakes ports; significant focus is on local economic activities and tourism.

Strategic Importance:

Benton Harbor's marine port, while not a major cargo hub compared to other Great Lakes ports, plays a significant role in local and regional recreation, economics, and small-scale shipping. Its dual-city nature with St. Joseph highlights its contribution to the area's tourism and community lifestyle.