Illinois Extension Schedules February Webinars on Inland Ports and Data Centers

OREGON — Illinois Extension is hosting a series of Community and Economic Development webinars this February to provide residents and local leaders with insights on inland port growth and data center expansion across the state. The first webinar, on February 12 at noon, will focus on Corn Belt Ports, highlighting new investments, federal recognition of regional ports, and initiatives like the Illinois River Cities and Towns Initiative and the Green Marine Highway Initiative. Presenters include Dr. Anshu Singh, Chris Smith, and Robert Sinkler of Corn Belt Ports. A separate webinar series on data centers will continue in late February, addressing community impacts from infrastructure and workforce demands as Illinois hosts more than 200 data centers. Registration is required for both series, and past sessions are available on the Illinois Extension YouTube channel.