Transportation & Infrastructure
East Central Indiana stands at the heart of a robust and efficient transportation network, making it an ideal location for businesses that rely on fast, cost-effective logistics. With a strategic mix of highways, rail, air, and port access, the region offers seamless connectivity to major markets across the U.S. and beyond.
Seamless connectivity to major markets
Logistics Advantage
Strategically positioned at the crossroads of major highways, rail networks, air cargo hubs, and inland ports, East Central Indiana offers unmatched connectivity for businesses that rely on efficient transportation and logistics. With three major interstates—I-69, I-70, and I-74—running through the region, companies benefit from fast, cost-effective access to national markets.
Trucking & Highways
East Central Indiana sits within a day’s drive of 60% of the U.S. population, making it an ideal location for warehousing, distribution, and manufacturing operations. When it comes to moving freight, the region has a distinct cost advantage. An impressive grid of highway connections provides quick access to Interstates I-65, I-69, I-70, I-74, I-75 and I-465.
Rail Advantage
Indiana is home to 42 railroads, including Class I carriers like Norfolk Southern and CSX, providing businesses with a direct link to the nation’s 139,500-mile rail system. Regional rail services further enhance freight movement to and from industrial sites.
Class I Railroads Serving East Central Indiana
Norfolk Southern
CSX
Regional Railroads Serving East Central Indiana
Wabash Central
U.S. Rail Corporation
Central Railroad Co. of Indianapolis
Indiana Creek Railroad Co
Central Indiana & Western Railroad
C & NC Railroad
Indiana Eastern
AIr Access
The region is within close distance of several major commercial airports, including Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Dayton, and Cincinnati, providing access to global freight and passenger routes. Indiana also boasts the second-largest FedEx Express hub in the world, ensuring fast, reliable logistics solutions.
Primary Airports serving East Central Indiana
More than 10,000 airline passenger enplanements
Fort Wayne International Airport
Indianapolis International Airport
Dayton International Airport
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
Regional General Aviation Airports serving East Central Indiana
10 annual domestic flights over 500 miles, 1,000 annual instrument operations and one based jet or 100 or more based aircrafts
Local General Aviation Airports
Serves local/regional markets. 10 or more annual instrument operations and 15 or more based aircrafts OR annual passenger boarding’s of 2,500 or more (usually not scheduled service but charter).
Richmond Municipal Airport
Portland Municipal Airport
New Castle/Henry County Municipal Airport
Basic/Uncategorized
Often serves critical aeronautical functions within local and regional markets. 10 or more based aircraft OR 30 or more miles from the nearest NPIAS airport OR critical community service provided by a Federal service Or a new airport or replacement facility after Jan 1, 2001.
Port Connections
Indiana’s three major ports—Burns Harbor, Mount Vernon, and Jeffersonville—link businesses to the Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and the Ohio-Mississippi River system, facilitating seamless trade to world markets.
With its robust infrastructure, low transportation costs, and strategic location, East Central Indiana is an ideal destination for companies looking to optimize logistics, distribution, and supply chain operations.