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.
Port of Cleveland Approves $170 Million in Financing for Transformative Economic Development, Educational and Cultural Projects
Port of Cleveland Approves $170 Million in Financing for Transformative Economic Development, Educational and Cultural Projects
Cleveland – September 12, 2024—The Port of Cleveland’s board of directors has approved $170 million in bond financing to fuel a series of high-impact projects, including a major manufacturing expansion, the revitalization lanSeptd that contained a former Veterans Administration facility, and refunding bonds for a 501c3 school. These investments underscore the Port’s pivotal role in driving economic growth, facilitating access to the tax-exempt bond market, and supporting cultural institutions across the region utilizing its credit enhanced bond fund program.
Since June alone, the Port has approved more than $311 million in bond financing, reflecting the significant demand for its services and the vital role it plays in supporting regional development.
“These projects, coupled with others approved by the Port board in recent months, show just how crucial this agency’s support is for economic development and community growth,” said Rhonda Winslow, Vice President of Development Finance.
The projects approved today include:
Momentive Technologies Expansion: Up to $50 million in lease revenue bonds were approved for the $40.2 million expansion of Momentive Technologies’ High Quality Quartz production facility in Richmond Heights. This project, critical to industries ranging from semiconductors to aerospace, will see a significant upgrade with new furnace equipment and a reconfigured, modernized manufacturing process. The expansion, covering 18,000 square feet on a 26-acre site, is expected to be completed over five years, and adding 14 skilled jobs to this global company that has approximately 850 employees.
Valor Acres Redevelopment: The first phase of Valor Acres in Brecksville being developed by the DiGeronimo Companies, will receive approximately $93 million in lease revenue bonds. This ambitious mixed-use development, on the former Louis Stokes Cleveland Veterans Administration Medical Center site, will include residential units, retail space, and office buildings, with 292 permanent jobs expected upon completion.
The first phase include five buildings with a total project cost of about $128 million on about 23.75 acres at the intersection of Brecksville and Miller Road. The development will comprise about 221,204 square feet, with a total of 221 residential units, 70,000 square feet of retail space and 146,000 square feet of office space. About 292 permanent jobs are expected to be created on completion of this phase.
Constellation Schools Renovation: The board approved up to $35 million in tax-exempt bonds to refinance bonds issued 10 years ago, with a small portion allocated for upgrading facilities. This funding will support the purchase and renovation of seven school buildings in Cleveland and Parma, benefiting over 4,400 students and 550 employees across more than 20 schools managed by Constellation Schools LLC. Renovations will improve the educational environments to support students’ success in Northeast Ohio. The work will take place at several schools in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County.
Toledo Museum of Art Energy Efficiency Upgrades: The board approved $7 million in tax-exempt Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) revenue bonds to support the Toledo Museum of Art’s energy efficiency and alternative energy improvements. This project spearheaded by the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority with partnership by the Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority and Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority addresses critical HVAC issues and enhances the museum’s infrastructure, ensuring its sustainability and continued cultural contributions
Replacing the HVAC will cost about $18.25 million, with an additional $1.75 million of improvements needed for the museum’s building envelope, which is the building enclosure between the conditioned and unconditioned environment of a building, including the resistance to air, water, heat and light.
“The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority has been actively involved in collaborative funding efforts, alongside partners at the Port of Cleveland and the Columbus-Franklin County Finance Authority, to support large-scale projects such as this energy efficiency improvement project for the Toledo Museum of Art,” said Thomas J. Winston, president and CEO of the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. “This collaboration illustrates how Ohio port authorities contribute to sustainable development by improving energy efficiency and supporting economic growth through shared resources.”
J. Stefan Holmes, chairman of the Port board, said “The depth of these projects, coupled with others before the board in recent months, show just how much the Port can do to help economic growth and development in Greater Cleveland.”
Since 1993, the Port of Cleveland has provided more than $5 billion to more than 160 projects in Cuyahoga County and beyond. Since its inception, the Port’s financing initiatives have been instrumental in transforming Cuyahoga County and beyond, demonstrating a consistent commitment to the region’s growth and prosperity. As demand for these services continues to rise, the Port remains at the forefront, driving the development that shapes the future of Northeast Ohio.
Port of Cleveland to welcome return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes in 2025
Port of Cleveland to welcome return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes in 2025
Cleveland – August 20, 2024 —
In 2025, the Port of Cleveland will welcome the return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes and Cleveland.
The Port of Cleveland first began welcoming cruise ships to its docks in 2017. Since then, each year, cruise season in the Great Lakes begins in late May and lasts through mid-September.
In 2024, the Port of Cleveland welcomed just over 20 cruise ships to its dock. However, in 2025 that will change thanks to the return of Victory Cruise Lines.
“This is very good news for Cleveland and the Great Lakes and shows that interest in cruising on Great Lakes is strong,” said Dave Gutheil, chief commercial officer for the Port of Cleveland. “Cleveland is one of the most popular stops on the itineraries.”
After a 1-year hiatus, Victory Cruise Lines will soon return to the Great Lakes and Cleveland with more than 30 calls already scheduled. The cruise line will return to the waters with two vessels, Victory I and Victory II, both of which have sailed the Great Lakes for nearly a decade.
In 2019, both ships were purchased by American Queen Steamboat Co., later known as American Queen Voyages. In early 2024, the company declared bankruptcy and put several of its vessels up for sale. Former American Queen Steamboat Co. owner, John Waggoner, bought the two vessels with plans to reintroduce the vessels in 2025.
“As long-time enthusiasts of maritime adventures, my wife Claudette and I are thrilled for the team to open reservations for the inaugural season as we prepare to sail these magnificent waters,” said Waggoner.
The two vessels, with a passenger capacity of approximately 190 people each, explore all five of the Great Lakes making stops in Chicago, Mackinac Island, Sault Ste. Marie, Toronto and more. The cruise line is currently booking trips for 2025 and beyond.
For more information on vessel arrivals in Cleveland, click here.
Notice of 8-15-2024 Special Meeting of Executive Contract Committee
Cleveland, OH (August 12, 2024) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC EXECUTIVE CONTRACT COMMITTEE OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Executive Contract Committee of the Board of Directors of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority will hold a special meeting pursuant to its Rules and Regulations on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the offices of the Port Authority at 1100 West Ninth Street, 1st Floor Conference Center, Cleveland, Ohio. The purpose of the meeting will be to consider certain matters in Ohio Revised Code Section 121.22(G)(1), specifically, to consider employment and compensation of a public employee. The Committee intends on adjourning into Executive Session after convening the meeting and consideration of the prior meeting minutes, and will only reconvene to adjourn the meeting.