GRAFTON

• Latitude: 38.9678
• Longitude: -90.4358
• Inland, USA
• Port in US

Location: US

Grafton, Illinois, is a small city located at the confluence of the Illinois River and the Mississippi River. Due to its strategic location, it holds importance as a river port. Here is a detailed description and specification of the Grafton Marine Port:

Location:

• City: Grafton
• State: Illinois
• Country: United States
• Coordinates: Approximately 38.9711° N latitude, 90.4301° W longitude

Accessibility:

• Waterways: Grafton is accessible via the Illinois River and the Mississippi River, making it a key spot for riverine transport.
• Roadways: Connected by Illinois Route 100 and Illinois Route 3, facilitating seamless road transport.

Port Specifications:

Infrastructure:

• Docks/Piers: There are several docks and piers designed to handle small to medium-sized vessels.
• Marinas: The city features multiple marinas, such as the Grafton Harbor Marina, which caters to recreational boating and small commercial operations.
• Services: Fuel, boat repair, and maintenance services are available for visiting and local vessels.

Navigational Aids:

• Buoys and Channel Markers: Standard navigational aids such as buoys and markers guide vessels through the joint waters of the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers.
• Lighting: Adequate lighting facilities ensure safe docking and undocking during night and low-visibility conditions.

Port Operations:

• Types of Vessels: Mainly serves recreational boats, small commercial vessels, and tour boats. It is less oriented towards heavy industrial shipping.
• Seasonality: The port sees peak activity during the warmer months, particularly with boating, tourism, and local festivals.

Economic and Social Impact:

• Tourism: Significant contributor to local tourism, attracting visitors for its scenic river views, boating, and historical significance.
• Local Commerce: Supports local businesses including restaurants, shops, and lodging facilities.

Environmental Considerations:

• Wetlands and Wildlife: The surrounding area includes wetlands and is rich in biodiversity, necessitating responsible navigation and adherence to environmental guidelines.
• Flood Management: Being at the confluence of two major rivers, flood risk management is critical, and the port employs several measures to mitigate flood impact.

Nearby Amenities:

• Restaurants and Cafes: Numerous dining options are available within walking distance.
• Shops and Markets: Local businesses offer a range of goods and services to visitors and residents.
• Historical Sites: Various points of historical interest can be found in and around Grafton with cultural and educational tours available.

Future Developments:

• Expansion Plans: There are ongoing discussions about future enhancements to port facilities and accessibility, potentially including upgrades to docking areas and additional amenities.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Efforts to incorporate sustainable practices to protect the unique river ecosystem and ensure long-term operability.

Contact Information:

For specifics on docking or port-related inquiries, it is advisable to contact the local port authority or marina management at Grafton Harbor.

• Grafton Harbor: [Grafton Harbor Contact Information]
• City of Grafton: [City of Grafton Official Website]

Conclusion:

Grafton Marine Port serves as a vital recreational and economic hub in southern Illinois, leveraging its strategic locale at the confluence of two major rivers. It underscores sustainable practices and caters to a mix of tourism and local commercial activities, contributing to the region’s attractiveness and vitality.