Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/80745
That's good news for northeast Wisconsin, as ports are typically one of the first indicators of how the economy is faring. "The port is a vital part of our local economy, our history and our lives. It W plays an important role in the transportation of goods and commodities that are critical to the economic health of the region, says Dean Haen, interim director of the Port and Solid Waste Department. A 200-year history Lake Michigan's western-most port offers a direct connection for shipping raw goods and materials from Green Bay to regional markets throughout the nation. Dating back to the early 1800s, the Port of Green Bay has a long history boasting the most cost-effective and sustainable method of transportation available via an extensive network of highways and railroads. Along a three-mile stretch of the Fox River there are 14 port businesses handling dry bulk commodities such as coal, limestone and salt, petroleum products, wood pulp and oversized cargo such as machinery and wind components. The businesses move a combined 2 million tons of cargo on more than 200 ships each year. Port report In 2010, the port had an economic impact of $83 million and supported 800 jobs in the area. Armed with this good news, the Port of Green Bay, along with the Brown County Harbor Commission, announced earlier this year it plans to explore the viability of housing an intermodal container facility. Doing so would open the port as a viable transportation option to countless new businesses, and many on the committee suspect it would give Green Bay and northeast Wisconsin a huge competitive edge. "We're not talking about constructing a new building, but using existing space, connected by road access and tracks, for storage of containers," Haen says. A two-phase project to gauge potential economic benefit is now underway, with results expected by month's end. In the first phase, Brown County businesses will be asked to complete a comprehensive survey. Phase two will bring in the thought leaders from companies in the "catchment" area north and west of Green Bay, including Upper Michigan. "We will combine these survey results to give us a better picture of the overall volume of potential freight for the proposed railway," says project lead Fred Monique, vice president of Economic Development for Advance, the economic development arm of the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce. When Canadian National purchased Wisconsin Central Railway in the early 2000s, it shut down its existing ramp in Green Bay. If the response from local manufacturers is overwhelmingly positive, the committee will have a good case for the container facility. "The port keeps us competitive, and in a global economy, that's important, " says Greg Flisram, harbor commissioner and director of Economic Development for the city of Green Bay. He points out that the port also keeps northeast Wisconsin "green." "Imagine all the pollution and road congestion we'd have if the Port of Green Bay didn't exist," Flisram says. "Shipping cargo by boat is the cleanest and cheapest way to move materials by far, over other methods like highway or rail." Learn more about the Port of Green bay at www.portofgreenbay.com. – Amy Spreeman www. insightonbusiness.com Port of Green Bay sparkles as a transportation powerhouse hile the transportation industry has had its share of economic challenges, the Port of Green Bay has turned a positive corner in the past year, as evidenced by a 25 percent increase in tonnage. 102,000± sq. ft. Office Buiding – Green Bay, WI 5.92± Acres – Commercial Investment Opportunity Ending Monday, September 17, 2012 LOCATION: Title Town Business Center, 2650 South Ashland Avenue, Green Bay, WI BEING OFFERED ON AUCTION: This is an exceptional opportunity to invest in the commercial real estate market. This property has excellent frontage on Hwy 32 just off of Hwy 172 and Hwy 41. This large lot consisting of 5.92± acres is "L" shaped with access to both Ashland Ave. and Industry Ct. Over 102,000± sq. ft. offers several options for multiple tenants. There is also a large conference/meeting room and kitchen area. Good signage and easy road access, plenty of parking area, and many options for multiple tenants; this is an investment you are looking for! This building is in good shape with many renovations and updates. The majority of the office space is on one floor with about 21,600± sq. ft. on a second floor serviced by independent stairs and an elevator. This property is a must see in a great location! For more information, see the website at www.hansenandyoung.com or call 715-837-1015. OPEN HOUSE: Friday, September 14, 2012 from 10:00AM – 1:00PM TERMS: 10% down bank draft or check, with the balance due in cash at closing in 45 days. There will be a 10% buyer's fee added to the final bid price to make up the final purchase price. Full terms will be available when you register for the auction. Real estate co-broking is encouraged, call the office for details. AUCTIONEERS: Hansen & Young, Inc. 1264 5th Ave., Prairie Farm, WI 54762 Bryce Hansen CAI, (715) 418-1030 or (715) 837-1015 Roger Hansen CAI, (715) 781-7172 Barry Hansen GPPA, (715) 418-1200 Wisconsin Registered Auctioneer License # 227, 2434, 225. "The Professional Auction Team" A MarkNet Alliance Member September 2012 • INSIGHT | 39 LENDER OWNED