Notice of Public Hearing- November 21, 2024
Cleveland, OH (November 14, 2024) –
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that on November 21, 2024, a public hearing will be held in the 1st Floor Conference Room of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority (the “Authority”), 1100 W. 9th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44114, commencing at ten o’clock a.m., with respect to the proposed issuance of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority, Variable Rate Revenue Bonds, Series 2024A and 2024B (The Medical Center Company Project), in a combined principal amount not to exceed $80,000,000 (the “Bonds”). The proceeds of the Bonds are to be used (1) to assist The Medical Center Company, an Ohio nonprofit corporation (the “Company”) in financing a portion of the costs of the acquisition and construction, reconstruction, renovation, expansion and improvement of its steam distribution system, chilled water distribution system and electric distribution system (the “Project”) for use by the Company to provide chilled water, steam and electric power to its members, including Case Western Reserve University (“CWRU”), University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center (“UHCMC”) and The Church of the Covenant (“COTC”), (2) to refund all or a portion of the Authority’s Variable Rate Revenue Bonds, Series 2014A and 2014B (The Medical Center Company Project) (collectively, the “Series 2014 Bonds”) and (3) to pay certain expenses incurred in connection with the issuance of the Bonds, not to exceed 2% of the sale proceeds. The amount of proceeds of the Bonds allocated to Project expenditures, including the proportional share of cost of issuance, shall be an amount not to exceed $24,000,000 and the amount of proceeds allocated to the refunding of the Series 2014 Bonds, including the proportional share of cost of issuance, shall be in an amount not to exceed $56,000,000. The Series 2014 Bonds were originally issued to refund the outstanding balance of the Authority’s Economic Development Revenue Bonds, Series 2011A and 2011B (The Medical Center Company Project) (collectively, the “Series 2011 Bonds”). The Series 2011 Bonds were originally issued (a) to refund the outstanding balance of the County of Cuyahoga, Ohio Utility Systems Improvement and Refunding Revenue Bonds, Series 1995B (The Medical Center Company Project) (the “Series 1995B Bonds”), which were originally issued to (i) pay the cost of constructing and installing certain improvements to the Company’s chilled water distribution system for air conditioning and process cooling and an electric power distribution system, including substation, and (ii) advance refund certain revenue bonds issued by the County of Cuyahoga in 1989 to finance improvements to the Company’s electric distribution system, (b) to refund the County of Cuyahoga, Ohio Utility Systems Improvement Revenue Bonds, Series 1998 (The Medical Center Company Project) (the “Series 1998 Bonds”), which were originally issued to pay the cost of constructing certain improvements to the Company’s chilled water distribution system, electric distribution system and steam distribution system, (c) to refund a note originally issued by the Company to The Huntington National Bank to fund improvements to the Company’s steam distribution system, chilled water distribution system and electric distribution system and (d) to pay certain expenses incurred in connection with the issuance of the Series 2011 Bonds, not to exceed 2% of the sale proceeds. The facilities being financed and refinanced with proceeds of the Bonds are all located either at the Company’s facilities located at 2250 Circle Drive, 2220 Circle Drive, 12401 Euclid Avenue and 11626 Mayfield Road, all in Cleveland, Ohio (the “City”) or on the campuses of CWRU, UHCMC and COTC in the University Circle area of the City. CWRU’s primary street address is 10920 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 and its campus is bounded by: Cedar Road between Overlook Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard on the South; Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard from Cedar Glen Parkway to Euclid Avenue, Euclid Avenue from Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard to East Boulevard, East Boulevard from Euclid Avenue to the north intersection with Wade Oval and Wade Oval from East Boulevard to Wade Park Avenue on the West; Wade Park Avenue from Wade Oval to East 118th on the North, East 118th Street from Wade Park Avenue to Euclid Avenue and Euclid Avenue from East 118th Street to the RTA Tracks on the North; and the RTA tracks to Cornell Road, Cornell Road from the RTA Tracks to Edgehill Road, Edgehill Road from Cornell Road to Overlook Road, Overlook Road from Edgehill Road to Cedar on the East. UHCMC’s primary street address is 11100 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44106 and its campus is bounded by Euclid Avenue to the north, Adelbert Road to the West, Cornell Road to the East and Circle Drive to the south. COTC’s primary street address is 11205 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio.
The proceeds of the Bonds will be loaned by the Authority to the Company pursuant to a loan agreement. The Bonds will be special obligations of the Authority as to the maximum principal amount of $80,000,000, payable solely from funds provided as loan payments by the Company and will not constitute a debt or a pledge of the faith and credit or the taxing power of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority or any agency, instrumentality or political subdivision of the State. The initial operator of the financed and refinanced facilities will be the Company.
This public hearing is required by section 147(f) of the Code. Persons wishing to express their views on the proposed bond issuance may appear at the hearing or may submit their views in writing regarding the proposed issue of bonds and the location and nature of the facilities to be financed. Any written submissions should be sent to the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority, 1100 W. 9th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44114 clearly marked “Re: The Medical Center Company Project”. Written submissions should be mailed in sufficient time to be received on or before ten o’clock a.m. on November 21, 2024.
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Stefan Holmes, Chair
Notice of Public Hearing- November 26, 2024
Cleveland, OH (November 14, 2024) –
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is given that on November 26, 2024, a public hearing will be held by the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority (the “Port Authority”) commencing at 11:00 a.m. local time in its offices located at 1100 West Ninth Street, Suite 300, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, and via toll-free telephone conference, with respect to the proposed issuance by the Port Authority of its Multifamily Note (Governmental) (Allerton Apartments) (the “Note”) in an aggregate face amount not to exceed $34,000,000. The Note will be issued pursuant to Sections 4582.01 through 4582.20, Section 4582.60 and Sections 9.98 through 9.983, Ohio Revised Code (collectively, the “Act”). The proceeds of the Note are to be used to pay costs of the acquisition, rehabilitation, installation, equipping and improvement of certain “port authority facilities” within the meaning of the Act to be owned by the Allerton Preservation LLC, an Ohio limited liability company (the “Owner”), including more specifically to make a loan to the Owner to assist in financing the costs of the acquisition and rehabilitation of Allerton Apartments, consisting of 199 residential rental units located at 1802 E. 13th Street, Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio (the “Project”). The initial legal owner or principal user of the Project financed by the Note is the Owner.
The Note will be a special obligation of the Port Authority payable solely from funds provided by the Owner and will not constitute a debt or a pledge of the faith and credit or the taxing power of the Port Authority, the State of Ohio, or any agency, instrumentality or political subdivision of the State.
Persons wishing to express their views on the proposed Note may appear at the hearing, or may submit their views in writing, regarding the proposed Note and the location and nature of the Project to be financed. Any written submissions should be sent to the Port Authority at 1100 West Ninth Street, Suite 300, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, and clearly marked “Re: Allerton Apartments Project.” Written submissions should be mailed in sufficient time to be received on or before the referenced public hearing on November 26, 2024.
Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority
By: Stefan Holmes, Chair
Port approves more than $171 million in bonds, notes for projects including riverfront revitalization, affordable housing in downtown
Port approves more than $171 million in bonds, notes for projects including riverfront revitalization, affordable housing in downtown
Cleveland – November 14, 2024— The Port of Cleveland today approved the issuance of more than $171 million in bonds and notes for four transformative projects, including the pivotal first new development in Bedrock’s Riverfront project along the Cuyahoga River and a major affordable housing renovation in downtown Cleveland, among other strategic initiatives.
This brings the total development bonds approved by the Port in 2024 to approximately $753 million, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing the economic landscape of Northeast Ohio.
“The projects approved today are a good showcase of the Port’s ability to add value to a diverse group of projects during a time when projects are a challenge to get done. Today’s approvals assist in moving forward a riverfront development to bring Cleveland closer to an 18-hour 15-minute neighborhood, give non-profits access to the tax-exempt bond market, provide PACE financing through collaboration with another port, and rehabilitate a low-income property in downtown, Cleveland,” said Rhonda Winslow, Vice President of Development Finance.
The projects approved today include:
- The Cleveland Clinic Global Peak Performance Center – Up to $50 million in taxable lease revenue bonds will help fund this 153,247-square-foot athletic training and medical facility. This over $200 million project is a cornerstone of the $3.5 billion Riverfront development being executed by Bedrock and will house a new training facility for the Cavaliers, with completion expected in 2027.
- Allerton Apartments Renovation – Up to $34 million in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue notes will support a $60 million overhaul of the Allerton Apartments at 1802 E. 13th St. in downtown Cleveland. This critical affordable housing project will modernize 199 Section 8 units within a 15-story, 146,094-square-foot building, ensuring continued access to quality housing for low-income residents.
- Medical Center Company Expansion – Up to $80 million in variable-rate revenue bonds will refinance existing bonds and fund the expansion of steam and chilled water services to University Circle non-profits, primarily Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals’ Case Medical Center. This expansion will enhance operational efficiency and support future growth in this essential district. The Medical Center Company also serves The Cleveland Museum of Art, The Church of the Covenant, The Musical Arts Association (Severance Hall), the Cleveland Botanical Garden, The Cleveland Medical Library Association and the Cleveland Institute of Art.
- Central Mutual Insurance Company Headquarters Repairs – Up to $7.4 million in PACE bonds will support $12.3 million in repairs to the Central Mutual Insurance headquarters in Van Wert, Ohio. This project, in partnership with the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, will strengthen infrastructure for a major property and casualty insurer serving 24 states, and helps to geographically diversify the Port’s bond fund portfolio.
“The financing projects approved by the Board throughout 2024 highlight the critical role our agency plays in Northeast Ohio’s development,” said J. Stefan Holmes, Port board chair. “I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish this year.
Strengthening Resilience: The Port of Cleveland hosts Supply Chain Disruption Exercise
Strengthening Resilience: The Port of Cleveland hosts Supply Chain Disruption Exercise
- It was identified that there is a need for the organizations represented at the meeting to begin to evaluate the coordination efforts beyond the immediate response to incidents.
- The exercise identified a need to consider more tabletops and/or seminars to discuss supply chain disruption pertaining to long-term impacts.
- The exercise identified that public information, and coordination needs improvement to consider stronger joint efforts and resource identification.
- Document changes to identify all types of hazards consideration for a THIRA style approach to considerations.
Port of Cleveland Secures Record $95 Million EPA Grant to Become One of the Most Sustainable Ports on the Great Lakes
Port of Cleveland Secures Record $95 Million EPA Grant to Become One of the Most Sustainable Ports on the Great Lakes
Cleveland – October 29, 2024 – The Port of Cleveland is proud to announce that it has been awarded the largest grant in its history, nearly $95 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). This transformative funding, part of the $3 billion EPA Clean Ports Program, will position the Port as a national leader in sustainable maritime operations and sets the standard for environmental stewardship on the Great Lakes.
“This is a monumental achievement for the Port of Cleveland,” said William Friedman, President and CEO. “Receiving the full amount of our request reflects both the strength of our proposal and our commitment to sustainability. We expect this investment will reduce port CO2 emissions by 40%, greatly improve air quality, and advance our Climate Action Plan in ways we could only imagine before.”
”This award reflects the tireless work of our team and the incredible support from our federal partners. It wouldn’t have been possible without the efforts of Senator Sherrod Brown and others who share our vision for a cleaner, more sustainable Great Lakes region,” Friedman said, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in securing this grant.
The $95 million grant will cover 90% of project costs aimed at significantly reducing its carbon footprint and cementing its position as a leader in sustainable maritime shipping, with the remaining 10% funded through private and public contributions. As part of the Clean Ports Program, the Port will implement a series of sustainability initiatives through partnerships with Logistec USA Inc. and Great Lakes Towing, the operators of the Port of Cleveland general cargo terminal and tugboat shipyard in Cleveland harbor. Together, they will implement the following initiatives:
- Rooftop solar system and battery energy storage for Port operations
- Electric cargo handling equipment and charging infrastructure
- Shore power system to allow vessels to plug in while docked
- Building two new electric tugboats, setting a new standard for maritime sustainability
In a letter to the EPA, Senator Sherrod Brown said: “These proposed upgrades would eliminate all trail-pipe emissions from the port, provide renewable energy power sources for visiting cargo vessels, improve air quality and fortify the port for future business growth in the area.”
Friedman credited dedicated Port staff involved in the application, with special recognition for the efforts of Carly Beck, Senior Manager of Planning, Environment and Information Systems.
“This funding provides the Port with an incredible opportunity to lead by example,” Beck said. “We are not just reducing emissions—we’re transforming the way maritime operations can integrate sustainability. This project will ensure that Cleveland’s port remains competitive, resilient, and environmentally responsible for decades to come.”
This historic grant underscores the Port of Cleveland’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener future, leading the way in maritime sustainability and environmental stewardship. As part of its strategic plan unveiled last year, the Port of Cleveland implemented a Climate Action Plan, the first port in the Great Lakes to adopt such a plan, with the goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Friedman said the Port is evolving with changing technologies, trade dynamics and environmental sustainability goals. The Climate Action Plan allocates resources that will build resiliency to climate change impacts such as increased storm intensity and heavy rainfalls, while also decarbonizing the Port.
Will Friedman Announces Departure from the Port of Cleveland
Will Friedman Announces Departure from the Port of Cleveland
Cleveland – Oct. 28, 2024 — Will Friedman, President and CEO of the Port of Cleveland, has announced his decision to step down from his role at the end of the year, following the expiration of his contract.
Friedman and the board could not reach agreement on a new contract.
“This was not a decision I took lightly,” Friedman said. “I am incredibly proud of the Port team and what we have accomplished to strengthen the Port and contribute to the community. I am confident that the important work we’ve started will continue under new leadership.”
Friedman said he is committed to facilitating a smooth leadership transition over the coming months.
“I have advised the board of my plans and communicated my intentions to assist with an orderly transition. I will continue to do everything I can to support the Port’s ongoing operations,” he said.
Friedman’s departure marks the end of a successful 14-year tenure during which the Port expanded its impact on regional economic development, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure investment.
J. Stefan Holmes, chair of the Port board, thanked Friedman for his leadership and contributions.
“Will’s vision and expertise in maritime operations and finance have enabled the Port of Cleveland to positively impact the regional economy,” Holmes said. “His outstanding service has been vital to the economic vitality of the region, and we sincerely thank him for his dedication.”
Holmes said the board will soon discuss plans to search for qualified candidates to replace the departing CEO.
“The board is committed to finding a successor with deep experience in maritime transportation, development finance and economic development to guide the Port through the next chapter,” Holmes said.
All media inquiries should be directed to Nancy Lesic, nlesic@lesiccamper.com, 216.392.9634
Notice of Public Hearing- October 22, 2024
Cleveland, OH (October 21, 2024) –
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is hereby given that on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. Eastern Time, or as soon as practical thereafter, in accordance with the provisions of Section 147 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), a public hearing will be held by the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority (the “Issuer”) at 1100 West Ninth St., Suite 300, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, with respect to the proposed issuance by the Issuer of Development Revenue Bonds (Port of Cleveland Bond Fund) Series 2024C (Toledo Museum of Art Project) (the “Bonds”) in the maximum aggregate principal amount of $7,500,000.
The Bonds are to be issued by the Port Authority for the benefit of The Toledo Museum of Art, an Ohio nonprofit corporation and organization described under Section 501(c)(3) of the Code (“TMA”). A portion of the Bonds are to be issued as qualified 501(c)(3) bonds under Section 145 of the Code to finance a portion of the costs of acquiring, constructing, installing, equipping, furnishing, and improving renovations to an existing approximately 328,568 square-foot building (the “Project”). The Project will be owned and operated by TMA at certain real property owned by TMA and located at the commonly used mailing address, 2445 Monroe Street, Toledo, Ohio 43620. In addition, the current plan of finance includes the issuance of qualified 501(c)(3) revenue bonds under Section 145 of the Code by the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority in one or more series in an aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $11,000,000 (the “TLCPA Bonds”) and the issuance of qualified 501(c)(3) revenue bonds under Section 145 of the Code by the Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority in one or more series in an aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $7,500,000 (the “CFCFA Bonds,” and together with the Bonds and the TLCPA Bonds, the “Project Bonds”).
The Bonds will be special obligations of the Issuer and will not constitute a debt or pledge of the faith and credit or the taxing power of the Issuer. Persons wishing to express their views on the proposed bond issuance may appear at the hearing or may submit their views in writing. To ensure their full consideration, all written submissions regarding the proposed bond issuance should clearly reference the aforementioned Bonds and the location and nature of the Project. All written submissions should be sent to the Issuer at the attention of the President and CEO at 1100 West Ninth St., Suite 300, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, and be clearly marked: Re: Development Revenue Bonds (Port of Cleveland Bond Fund) Series 2024C (Toledo Museum of Art Project). Written submissions should be mailed in sufficient time to be received on or before the aforesaid hearing date.
By: J. Stefan Holmes
Chair, Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority
Port approves $15 million in taxable lease revenue bonds for Cleveland Heights historic redevelopment
Port approves $15 million in taxable lease revenue bonds for Cleveland Heights historic redevelopment
Cleveland – October 10, 2024— The Port board today approved issuing up to $15 million in taxable bonds for financing of the $25.6 million Taylor Tudor Plaza Project, part of the first phase of a larger $150 million mixed use neighborhood revitalization of the Taylor Road neighborhood in Cleveland Heights.
The Taylor Tudor project is the cornerstone of the Cain Park Village revitalization project. It will redevelop three three-story city-owned vacant historic buildings into 44 apartments, including eight live/work units, amenities including fitness and office space and 11,000 square feet of street level commercial suites.
The Taylor Tudors were built between 1927 and 1929. An Ohio Historic Preservation Tax Credit was granted to the development in 2023.
Work on the project is expected to start by the end of 2024, with the completion planned by the second quarter of 2026.
The Taylor Road project is being planned by WXZ, a Fairview Park based family-owned real estate developer who was selected by the City of Cleveland Heights to develop the properties.
In other business, the board approved a plan under which the Port becomes owner of the Gateway East parking garage and leases it to the Guardians, allowing the team to take over garage operations from the City of Cleveland. The City of Cleveland approved the sale earlier this year. The Port will receive $35,000 per year in fees to facilitate the arrangement between the City and Guardians.
Partner Highlight - Seaman's Service: Volunteers supporting international crew members in Port
Partner Highlight - Seaman’s Service: Volunteers supporting international crew members in Port
The Seaman’s Service has been welcoming international seafarers to Cleveland since 1964, providing services to foreign crew members while they are in the Port of Cleveland. Volunteer staff assist seafarers between noon and 8 p.m. in two four-hour shifts each day that a ship is in port.
“The Seaman’s Service plays a crucial role in making Cleveland a welcoming port for international seafarers. Their dedication to ensuring the well-being of these crew members, who often spend months away from home, is truly commendable. We are deeply grateful for their service and the positive impact they have on the lives of so many,” said the Port’s Will Friedman.
In 2023, services were provided during 61 Port calls by different foreign cargo ships. The seafarers — mostly from countries in Asia and Eastern Europe, with the leading numbers from India, the Philippines, Poland and Ukraine — do dangerous work, earn modest wages and are isolated from home for up to nine months.
The Seamen’s Service, an all-volunteer organization, was formed to welcome, serve and support these visitors, and is one of only a few such groups on the Great Lakes serving international seafarers. They are based out of a converted cargo container at the Port.
The Service has 17 Participating Members who actively volunteer at the Port, with an equal number of Supporting Members who help out in other ways. The majority of members are retirees.
The service provides:
- Help contacting family members back home
- Free WiFi
- Help with shopping and arranging cultural, recreational or religious activities
- Arranging or providing local transportation
- Snacks, souvenirs, DVD’s and a comfortable place to relax and socialize
“Multiple agencies focus on the operation of the vessel itself and on the managing of its cargo. Only Seamen’s Service is focused on the welfare of the crew,” said Eric Kretzmann of Seamen’s Service.
Their volunteering is appreciated by both ship captains and crew members.
“When no one else is around, we know that we can count on you to be here for us,” said the captain of the Edenborg.
For more information on Seamen’s Service, go to www.clevelandss.org.
Port Hires Construction Manager for Electrification Hub and Modernization of General Cargo Terminal
Port Hires Construction Manager for Electrification Hub and Modernization of General Cargo Terminal
CLEVELAND, September 12, 2024 – In a major step toward decarbonizing the port, modernizing its facilities and enhancing its operational capabilities, the Port of Cleveland has approved $2.9 million to hire The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company as the construction manager for an important upgrade at its 49-year-old General Cargo Terminal. This project will rehabilitate a key warehouse and enhance the terminal’s electrical infrastructure as a first step for decarbonization, ensuring the port remains competitive and sustainable for decades to come.
Whiting-Turner, a national construction management firm with a local office in Cleveland, was selected through a competitive public process. The company will partner with The AKA Team, a Cleveland-based minority construction management firm, which will handle 30% or more of the contract. This collaboration reflects the Port’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in its major projects.
The modernization efforts will include:
- The Rehabilitation of Warehouse A: A comprehensive overhaul of the terminal’s largest warehouse, including structural steel repairs, installation of a new overhead crane, window replacements, a new concrete slab, updated lighting, and a new roof. Built in 1975, Warehouse A requires significant updates to accommodate evolving technologies critical to the Port’s operations.
- Electrification: Bring in new medium/high voltage Cleveland Public Power (CPP) feed to Warehouse A to establish the Terminal’s electric distribution hub. This new electric distribution hub will support future electrification efforts, including cargo handling equipment, charging stations, switching locomotives, powering ships at dock, mobile harbor cranes, and potential solar arrays on warehouse roofs.
- Enhanced Stormwater Management: Installation of stormwater collection and treatment infrastructure to ensure clean discharge into Lake Erie. This effort will build resilience against climate change impacts, such as increased storm intensity and heavy rainfall.
- West 3rd Lot Cargo Movement Efficiency Improvements: Demolish existing cargo handling equipment maintenance facility and hiring hall building and reconstruct as annexed wings off Warehouse A.
Whiting-Turner brings extensive experience managing public and private industrial, warehouse, and electrical infrastructure projects with state and federal funding. As a Construction Manager at Risk
(CMAR), Whiting-Turner is engaged from the design phase to provide pre-construction input, manage all construction contracts, and ensure the project stays within the guaranteed maximum price.
When completed, the work involved will ensure ongoing efficiency of Port facilities and prepare the Port for upcoming electrification efforts.
The modernization project is funded through two major grants:
- $27.2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program to improve safety, efficiency and reliability of movement in and around the Port.
- $4.9 million from the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Maritime Assistance Program for projects enhancing efficiency and capacity of cargo terminal operations.
William Friedman, President and CEO of the Port of Cleveland, underscored the importance of this investment.
“Hiring a Construction Manager at Risk makes good business and economic sense,” he said. “Whiting-Turner is highly qualified and will ensure these projects stay on track and within budget. We are committed to safeguarding taxpayer investments and keeping the Port operational for the future.”
This initiative is part of a broader $93.8 million investment in Port infrastructure since 2015, with over 75% of funding provided by state and federal grants. The upgrades align with the Port’s recently implemented Climate Action Plan, which aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, making Cleveland the first Great Lakes port to adopt such an ambitious environmental goal.