Work has started on a new logistics facility located close to fast-growing, cargo-centric Chicago Rockford International Airport.
The 334,800 sq ft facility is the first phase of the Rockford Logistics Park 20 and will accommodate air cargo, logistics, distribution, light manufacturing and assembly operations, with the flexibility to serve either a single occupant or multiple tenants.
It is located one mile away from the airport and is being developed by Hillwood.
Zack Oakley, executive director, Chicago Rockford International Airport, said that the start of construction is another indication of the continued investment being made around the airport and the growing demand for logistics facilities in the area.
“Developments like this complement the airport’s cargo operations by providing additional capacity for businesses looking to take advantage of Rockford’s dedicated cargo infrastructure and connectivity,” he stated.
Don Schoenheider, executive vice president and Midwest Market Leader, Hillwood, said: “Rockford offers the accessibility and operating environment that logistics users are looking for, while its dedicated approach to cargo operations and efficient access to major markets made it a natural location for our first development in the Rockford/Winnebago Country area.
“We see this as the beginning of a long-term investment in Rockford, and we look forward to expanding this partnership in the future.”
The airport has seen its cargo volumes grow rapidly in recent years, positioning itself as an alternative to Chicago O’Hare.
In late June, freight forwarder DSV added a new freighter operation to the airport from Luxembourg.
Meanwhile, last year the airport saw its cargo volumes increase by 9.25% year on year in 2025 to 3.4bn pounds.
RFD said that 2025 was its second busiest on record, beaten only by the Covid boom year of 2022.
