Muskogee, OK – The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has appointed Kimbra Scott, Executive Director of Port Muskogee, to serve on the Maritime Transportation System National Advisory Committee (MTSNAC) as a ports & terminals representative. This prestigious two-year appointment is a significant recognition of Port Muskogee’s growing role in national maritime and transportation discussions.
MTSNAC provides key recommendations to the USDOT on matters related to the maritime transportation system, ensuring its seamless integration into the broader national infrastructure. Scott’s appointment not only elevates Port Muskogee but also highlights the vital role of the entire McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS), a crucial inland waterway that links Oklahoma to global markets.
“This appointment is a tremendous honor for Kimbra and a landmark moment for Port Muskogee,” said Earnie Gilder, Chairman of the Muskogee City County Port Authority Board. “Her leadership and expertise will not only provide valuable insights to MTSNAC but will also elevate Oklahoma’s presence in national maritime strategy. This recognition underscores the strategic importance of our port, the MKARNS system, and our commitment to driving economic growth through maritime infrastructure.”
The MKARNS is a vital transportation corridor for businesses across Oklahoma and the Midwest, offering cost-effective, multimodal access to domestic and international markets. Companies like Dal-Tile leverage port assets and MKARNS connectivity to reduce transportation costs while remaining off-port, demonstrating how the system benefits industries beyond the immediate waterfront.
Kimbra Scott will join national leaders in providing guidance on how to enhance the capacity, efficiency, and security of America’s inland and coastal ports. Her voice will play a vital role in addressing key challenges in the industry and advocating for policies that strengthen Oklahoma’s role in national and global trade.
“I am honored to represent Port Muskogee, the MKARNS system, and the state of Oklahoma on this national stage,” said Kimbra Scott. “This appointment is a recognition of the significant contributions our port and the MKARNS system make to regional and national supply chains. I look forward to working with industry leaders to strengthen America’s maritime infrastructure and ensure our ports remain globally competitive.”
This appointment reinforces Port Muskogee’s commitment to innovation and economic growth while highlighting the critical role of the MKARNS and Oklahoma’s inland waterway system in national transportation policy.
For more information, please contact:
Kimbra Scott
Executive Director
[email protected] 918-682-7886