Illinois Makes $110 Million Available for Public Port Projects Illinois Department of Transportation via YouTube Illinois officials announced $110 million is available for projects to improve public ports across the state. Specifically, the department is looking for project proposals that aim to modernize the marine transportation system and improve ports. “Rebuild Illinois is about investing in the long-term economic success of our state — and our public ports are critical to ensuring Illinois remains an economic engine for the nation,” said Governor Jay “J.B.” Pritzker. “Already, Illinois is a global hub for the nation’s commerce and transportation. This funding will allow the state’s ports to build on that status and further establish Illinois as a national hub for the shipping and logistics industry while creating earning opportunities for local residents.”