WAUKEGAN

• USUGN
• Latitude: 42.3717
• Longitude: -87.8165
• Great Lakes
• Port in US

Location: US

Waukegan Harbor - Marine Port Description and Specification

Location: Waukegan Harbor is situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, in the city of Waukegan, Lake County, Illinois, United States. It is approximately 40 miles north of Chicago and serves as a critical port in the region.

Coordinates: Latitude: 42.3596° N Longitude: 87.8306° W

Harbor Characteristics:

• Type: Coastal natural harbor
• Waterway: Part of the Great Lakes system
• Navigation: Accessed via Lake Michigan, with approach channels maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• Tide Range: Non-tidal (Great Lakes are not subject to oceanic tides but may experience fluctuations due to seiches and seasonal water level changes)

Facilities and Infrastructure:

• Terminals and Docks: The harbor contains multiple docking facilities, including both commercial and recreational docks.
• Storage: Open storage areas and warehouses available for various cargo
• Loading Equipment: Cranes and other handling equipment
• Marine Services: Ship repairs, refueling, and maintenance services are available
• Amenities: Yacht clubs and marina facilities serve recreational boating needs

Port Usage:

• Cargo: Historically, the port has handled bulk commodities like coal, limestone, salt, cement, and taconite (iron ore pellets)
• Recreational Use: Waukegan Harbor is a popular spot for recreational boating, fishing, and sailing, with significant marina facilities
• Commercial Use: Commercial shipping, industrial activities, and cruise-related services
• Fishing: Both commercial and sport fishing are active in the area

Transportation Links:

• Road Access: Good road connectivity to major highways (e.g., Interstate 94)
• Rail Access: Freight rail service connections to national networks
• Air Access: Relatively close to Chicago O'Hare International Airport and other regional airports

Environmental Considerations:

• Water Quality: Ongoing efforts to monitor and improve water quality in coordination with environmental authorities
• Wildlife: The harbor area is adjacent to many natural habitats, necessitating careful management to protect local wildlife

Regulations and Security:

• Security: In line with U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security regulations
• Customs: Facilities for handling customs and inspections for international cargo
• Navigation Aids: Includes buoys, lights, and signaling devices maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard

Future Development: The harbor has seen and continues to see investments aimed at enhancing both commercial and recreational facilities, as well as environmental improvements to support sustainable use.

Key Contacts:

• Harbor Master Office: Main point of contact for operational information
• Port Authority: Oversees the administration and strategic development of the port
• Coast Guard: For safety, security, and emergency issues

Community and Economic Impact: Waukegan Harbor plays a significant role in the local economy, supporting jobs in shipping, transportation, manufacturing, and tourism, while also contributing to the economic vitality of the Great Lakes region.

Conclusion

Waukegan Harbor is a multifaceted port providing essential services for both commercial shipping and recreational boating, with robust infrastructure and strategic connectivity making it a pivotal maritime hub on the western shore of Lake Michigan.