MADISON – Senator Eric Wimberger (R-Oconto) and Representative Benjamin Franklin (R-De Pere) released the following statements before the Joint Committee on Finance, the state’s budget-writing committee, will vote today to include $20 million in funding for development and expansion activities at the Port of Green Bay in the 2025-26 State Budget:
“With the Finance Committee’s action’s today, Brown County and Northeast Wisconsin will finally be able to expand its port and take major shipping for generations,” Senator Wimberger stated. “The Port’s dilapidated condition and absence of a Southern Bridge were two main hobbling injuries to the region, and we are thrilled to be able to provide the investments that will chart a course for economic growth in the area for decades. Representative Ben Franklin was an amazing advocate for the Green Bay area, and without his help this project would not have been possible.”
“The Port of Green Bay is a critical piece of Northeast Wisconsin’s infrastructure that has been long-neglected, Representative Franklin said. “The Joint Finance Committee’s action today will complete the Port’s development, and set Northeast Wisconsin up to accept major shipping for generations, creating new opportunities for the industries and businesses that make up the backbone of our communities. This is a great day for Northeast Wisconsin.”
Senator Wimberger and Representative Franklin introduced the budget motion to provide $20 million to allow for the full redevelopment of the Port of Green Bay. The Port plays a pivotal role in moving more than 2 million tons of cargo every year for distribution throughout Wisconsin and the entire Midwest.
The newly-approved funds will allow for the Port’s full expansion, increasing economic activity through extensive shoreline improvements to facilitate ship traffic to the site.
In May, Senator Wimberger successfully urged DOA Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld to extend a deadline for local officials to negotiate a deal to move the coal piles, or risk losing a $15 million state grant. Local leaders reached an agreement under this extended deadline, ensuring the $15 million stays in Brown County. These funds, along with the $20 million approved today by the Joint Committee on Finance, will be used to fund the full expansion project.
