The ease of access to multiple modes transportation is one of Jefferson County’s greatest strengths. Its central location versus national markets, the nations’ transportation system and the development of the location to service multiple modes of transportation are vital to the continued growth of Jefferson County.
Located in the heart of southern Illinois, Jefferson County has multiple Interstate exits on I-57 and I-64. Some highway access from Jefferson County includes:
RouteAccessDirection
Interstate 57LocalNorth/South
Interstate 64LocalEast/West
Interstate 7065 miles northEast/West
via I-57
Interstate 2451 miles southEast/West
via I-57
State Route 37LocalNorth/South
State Route 15LocalEast/West
State Route 148LocalNorth/South
State Route 142LocalNorthwest/Southwest
Another key component making Jefferson County a hub of transportation is its world-class airport. The Mt. Vernon Outland Airport has a 6,500-foot main runway, fixed base operation, terminal building and storage hangers. Charter and private aviation services are provided as well as refueling. The facility offers Shell 100 and Jet A fuels, a pilot lounge with weight and exercise room, shower and snooze rooms, wireless internet in the terminal, complimentary refreshments, courtesy shuttle, as well as overnight hangar reservations. Other commercial air service within 90 miles include Lambert International Airport-St. Louis, Mid America Airport-Mascoutah and Williamson County Airport-Marion.
Not to be outdone, the rail industry in Jefferson County and southern Illinois is thriving and a major component in logistics for North America. Mt. Vernon sits at the unique junction of three Class 1 Railroads, the UP, CSX and NS, as well as BNSF and Evansville Western, giving companies the opportunity to move their materials and goods east and west from one location.
Jefferson County is also just 45 minutes from East St. Louis, Illinois, the nations’ No. 2 rail hub, and passenger services are available within 30 miles through Amtrak.
Motor freight also plays an extensive role in moving Jefferson County forward. Local distribution is alive and well with manufacturers like Continental Tire, Everbrite Neon Sign, Walgreens Distribution Center and NAPA. Trucking companies include UPS Freight, FedEx Freight, Overnite Transportation and Direct Motor Freight, as well as other local companies including Prologistics, Midwestern Transit, Road Dog Drivers and more.
For companies that require more than road, air and rail transport, inland port facilities are available within 1 ½ hours of Jefferson County on both the Ohio and the Mississippi Rivers.
Jefferson County, Illinois, is uniquely positioned to be a transporta-tion hub for not only the Midwest, but also for all of North America.