City of Pine Bluff Announces First-Ever Port Showcase Celebrating Historic Regional Partnership

May 14, 2026

(L to R) Bill Jones; Bryan Day; Mayor Vivian Flowers; Tracey Rittelmeyer, City of Pine Bluff Economic Development Consultant

Originial news article appears at https://www.cityofpinebluff-ar.gov/press_view.php?id=104

PINE BLUFF, AR (April 29, 2026) - The City of Pine Bluff proudly hosted the first-ever Port Showcase in partnership with the Port of Little Rock and the Pine Bluff-Jefferson County Port Authority, marking a significant milestone in the regional collaboration and economic development for Arkansas.

The showcase brought together port leadership, industry stakeholders, and regional partners for a tour of both ports and a working luncheon featuring networking opportunities and insights from speakers including Bill Jones, Arkansas Game and Fish Commissioner; Bryan Day, Executive Director of the Little Rock Port Authority; Carlton Saffa, Chief Marketing Officer of Saracen Casino; and Lenore Trammell, Chief Compliance Officer and General Counsel at Big River Steel.

The showcase also comes at a pivotal time for the Port of Pine Bluff, following recent actions that have further strengthened momentum around the port's future. On April 8, 2026, the Pine Bluff-Jefferson County Port Authority approved a resolution supporting a memorandum of agreement with the Little Rock Port Authority to collaborate on economic development, increase river tonnage, and promote regional port cooperation. The event also follows a Congressional appropriation request of $9.8 million for needed infrastructure upgrades, with an additional 10 percent commitment from the port operator, reflecting continued investment in modernizing the port and improving long-term competitiveness.

Centered around the newly formed partnership between the two port authorities, the event elevated the conversation beyond moving cargo to advancing intermodal development that seamlessly links river, rail, and road transportation. Together, both ports are positioned to serve as dynamic logistics hubs in the heart of the South while supporting economic growth across Arkansas.

"This partnership is about more than infrastructure. It is about opportunity," said Mayor Vivian Flowers. "When we connect assets, align strategy, and work across regions, we strengthen our ability to attract investment, support industry, and create long-term prosperity. This showcase reflects what is possible when we think beyond boundaries and work together for the greater good."

Flowers added that the collaboration is a reflection of the administration's broader commitment to economic development and positioning Pine Bluff as a key player in statewide growth.

"Our port is an asset with tremendous potential and a proud legacy as the first port established in Arkansas," Flowers said. "This is a win-win for Pine Bluff, for Little Rock, and for all Arkansans. Partnerships like this move us from conversation to action."

Allison Thompson, President and CEO of the Economic Development Alliance for Jefferson County, emphasized the significance of the moment and the opportunities created through regional alignment.

"Working regionally, collaboration between the Port of Pine Bluff and the Port of Little Rock will boost competitiveness by aligning economic strategies and leveraging the strengths of the combined assets. We can create economies of scale, enhance efficiency, and present a more compelling case for investment by businesses looking at central Arkansas."

The City of Pine Bluff extends appreciation to the boards, staff, and partners of both ports whose vision and dedication helped make the inaugural Port Showcase a success.

The event underscores Pine Bluff's continued focus on regional partnerships, intermodal innovation, and economic strategies that support the city's momentum as the City of Progress.