Articles
Logistec USA to Resume Normal Operating Hours: Effective March 31, 2025
Logistec USA to Resume Normal Operating Hours: Effective March 31, 2025
As the flowers begin to bloom and spring settles in, Logistec USA at the Port of Cleveland is gearing up for the 2025 shipping season. We are excited to welcome back all our carriers, brokers, drayage teams, and partners. To ensure a smooth and efficient experience this season, we invite you to take a moment to review the important updates and guidelines below.
Resumption of Normal Business Hours
Starting Monday, March 31, 2025, Logistec USA will resume normal business operations and return to a 5-day work week. Our loading hours will be Monday through Friday, from 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM. We are eager to work with our partners to meet the demands of the season, and we encourage everyone to adjust their schedules accordingly.
Increased Port Entry Fee for Non-TWIC Visitors
Please be advised that the Port of Cleveland will see an increase in the fee for non-TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) visitors. Effective March 31, 2025, the entry fee will rise from $70 to $80, which must be paid via credit card or company check. Unfortunately, cash will no longer be accepted.
Safety Guidelines and Compliance
The safety of everyone at the Port of Cleveland is our top priority. All visitors are required to review and adhere to the attached safety pamphlet, which outlines the necessary guidelines for entry and operations. Please remember that compliance with safety practices, including wearing the mandatory personal protective equipment (PPE), is essential. Any individuals failing to follow the safety protocols will be excused from the port without their cargo, and the matter will be reviewed with the relevant cargo owners, brokers, and carrier or drayage dispatch.
Missed Loads Policy
Please take note that missed loads will not roll over to the next day and will incur a charge of $50 per load. This policy is effective immediately, and more details are provided in the attached “Letter to Carriers.”
Important Navigation Reminder
For ease of access, please use the following address for navigation to the Port of Cleveland:
500 W 3rd Street, Cleveland, OH.
It is crucial to avoid using 775 Erieside Ave, Cleveland, OH, or simply entering “Port of Cleveland” into GPS systems, as this will direct drivers to the wrong location.
Looking Ahead
We are excited for another busy and successful shipping season, and we can’t wait to see all the familiar faces returning to the port this year. Let’s work together to ensure a safe, efficient, and prosperous 2025 season for all involved.
We look forward to a productive season ahead—thank you for your continued cooperation and partnership!
Stay safe and see you at the port!
Cleveland’s Sediment Revolution: How the Port of Cleveland Turned a Disposal Problem into a National Model
Cleveland’s Sediment Revolution: How the Port of Cleveland Turned a Disposal Problem into a National Model
For years, dredging was seen as a necessary but costly burden, a way to keep Cleveland’s shipping channels open while figuring out what to do with endless piles of river sediment. But today, Cleveland has transformed a once-mundane maintenance task into an environmental and economic game-changer, with the rest of the nation watching.
No longer just about clearing the river for massive cargo ships, Cleveland is proving that dredged material isn’t waste; it’s a resource with untapped potential.
The Port of Cleveland has spent the last 15 years pioneering a groundbreaking approach that recycles sediment into valuable materials for land restoration, construction and brownfield redevelopment while protecting Ohio’s greatest natural resource, Lake Erie. This innovative model is attracting attention at the state and federal levels, with many calling it the future of sustainable sediment management.
From Disposal Headache to Economic Opportunity
Today, sediment is harvested by locally based Kurtz Bros., which has operated the Port’s Sediment Processing Facility since 2016. This public-private partnership has transformed sediment from a liability into an asset, processing material that was discarded and repurposing it into everything from engineered soil to construction aggregate.
“The Port has been leading the charge in finding beneficial applications on land,” said Jason Ziss, Director of Business Development with Kurtz Bros., a company that has significant expertise with beneficial reuse. “Right now, other ports in Ohio as well as the Army Corps of Engineers are all looking at the Port of Cleveland’s model as the future of sediment management. The ingenuity and pioneering spirit of the Port is providing a national impact.”
Why Sediment Management Matters
Dredging is critical to Northeast Ohio’s economy. The Cuyahoga River is a crucial commercial artery, supporting $7 billion in economic impact and 23,000 jobs.
Cleveland has more sediment than any Great Lakes port. Without regular dredging, the river would become unnavigable for the large ships that carry essential goods into the region. Even a one-inch loss in water depth can reduce a vessel’s cargo capacity by 270 tons, according to the Lake Carriers’ Association.
Across the nation, dredged materials many years ago were barged out and dumped in designated areas in bodies of water. Current regulations prohibit that.
A common misconception is that all dredged sediment is toxic. In reality, most of it comes from natural erosion—soil washed into the river from stream banks and parks. While excess sediment in water can contribute to harmful algal blooms, when properly managed, it becomes a valuable resource for land use. By repurposing these nutrients in upland soils, plants can absorb them naturally, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and supporting more sustainable land management practices.
Recognizing this, the Port, under the leadership of former CEO Will Friedman and Jim White, its former director of sustainable programs, began researching ways to reclaim sediment for beneficial reuse. The result was a first-of-its-kind sediment recycling center at Burke Lakefront Airport, where sediment is pumped from barges into a processing facility that uses the natural energy of water flow to separate and capture useful sediment materials.
“The Port and their partners created a facility for a sediment recycling center on the east side of Burke Lakefront Airport,” Ziss said. “The Port, Kurtz Bros., along with Hull and Associates created a sediment collection system that pumps sediment off barges into the facility, using the natural energy of flowing water to capture sorted sediment and allowing us to process it for reuse.”
Turning Sediment into Solutions
No longer an expensive burden, the Port and Kurtz Bros. now repurpose sediment into high-demand products, including:
· Construction materials (sand and aggregate for building projects)
· Engineered soils (blended with compost for land revitalization)
· Brownfield redevelopment (used as fill for industrial sites in the process of being reclaimed)
· Landfill cover (stabilizing closed landfills and preparing them for new uses)
A prime example of these efforts includes the reuse of sediment in several key redevelopment and infrastructure projects. This includes the transformation of brownfields, providing soil for the ODOT’s I-90 Innerbelt project and aggregate for use in embankments that support the bridge structures. Additionally, sediment has been utilized in the Towpath Trail Connector Project and for topsoil as part of ODOT’s Lakeland Boulevard project in Lake County. A large amount of the sediment is turned into a nutrient rich topsoil that is used in landscaping and horticulture applications throughout Cuyahoga County.
“We are proud to partner with a local company like Kurtz Bros. to bring real innovation to sediment management,” said Dave Gutheil, interim CEO and Chief Commercial Officer for the Port. “Kurtz Bros. has been a trusted environmental steward and an invaluable partner in finding creative ways to repurpose dredged material, turning a necessary process into an opportunity for economic growth and ecological improvement. Together, we’re demonstrating how public-private collaboration can drive forward-thinking solutions that benefit our waterways, our economy and our entire community.”
Gutheil also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Ohio EPA in supporting the Port’s work.
Headquartered in Independence, Kurtz has been redefining waste into resources since the 1940s. Today, the company employs over 200 people and has set ambitious goals: to further develop dredge material into useful products that can be used in positive productive applications throughout the region and state. Kurtz currently recycles at least 60% of all the sediment that is dredged from the Cuyahoga River each year and also operates other sediment recycling facilities in Ohio. Kurtz is the largest sediment beneficial reuse company in the entire Great Lakes region.
Ziss said the company could potentially expand Cleveland’s model. “Cleveland is proving that there’s a market for reclaimed sediment, and demand is only growing—especially in the construction and agricultural industries.”
Another promising next step could be using sediment to restore degraded farmland, improve soil health and address soil lead contamination—a major issue in Cleveland.
The Port of Cleveland’s approach to sediment recycling is proof that even the most overlooked challenges—like river dredging—can be transformed into innovative, job-creating and environmentally responsible solutions. Thanks to the Port of Cleveland and Kurtz Bros.., what was once considered waste
is now fueling economic growth, advancing sustainability and earning national recognition—solidifying Cleveland’s reputation as a leader in innovative, environmentally responsible solutions.
2025 FIRST SHIP CONTEST: Guess the Maiden Ship's Arrival and Win Exciting Prizes!
2025 FIRST SHIP CONTEST: Guess the Maiden Ship's Arrival and Win Exciting Prizes!
Spring is on the horizon, and the Port of Cleveland is celebrating the beginning of the 2025 commercial shipping season with an exciting opportunity for you to win big! The first ocean-going vessel to enter Cleveland’s harbor is not only a symbol of the start of the shipping season but also the perfect way to usher in the warmer months. Here’s your chance to predict when this historic ship will arrive and sail toward incredible prizes!
How to Enter:
Simply predict the date and time of the arrival of the first transatlantic ship to Cleveland’s harbor, and you could be the lucky winner of one of several amazing prizes. The person who guesses the closest date and time will win a grand prize package that includes, but is not limited to:
- Guardians Tickets
- Monsters Tickets
- Lady Caroline Gift Card
- Great Lakes Science Center Prize Pack
- Lago East Bank Prize Pack
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Prize Pack
- Overnight stay at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown
Submission Details:
- Entries must be submitted via email to firstship@portofcleveland.com by 4:59 p.m. ET, March 14, 2025.
- Only one entry per person or household is permitted.
- To submit your guess, you must include your full name, address, email address, and daytime phone number.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Contestants must be residents of the state of Ohio.
- Minors under the age of 18 as of March 14, 2025, must have written parental or guardian consent to participate. The entry form should include the parent/guardian’s full name, address, email address, and daytime phone number to claim the prize.
Contest Rules:
- The contestant who guesses the closest date and time of the first ship’s arrival will be declared the winner. In the event of a tie, the person who submitted their guess first will win.
- The winner will be notified by phone and email. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours, the next closest contestant will be contacted.
- By entering, you grant permission to the Port of Cleveland to use your name and entry information in various media, including website and social media.
- Participants must adhere to the following eligibility guidelines:
- Port of Cleveland employees and their immediate family members are not eligible.
- Employees of any Port of Cleveland tenant, vessel line, or user and their immediate family members are also not eligible.
- Immediate family members are defined as parents, stepparents, children, step-children, siblings, step-siblings, and spouses.
The Importance of the Port of Cleveland:
The Port of Cleveland is a critical economic hub for the region, serving as the premier international multimodal trade center on the Great Lakes. As a gateway to America’s Heartland, the port supports more than 23,000 jobs and generates approximately $7.07 billion in annual economic activity through the cargo that moves through Cleveland Harbor. This contest is a great way to celebrate the port’s significance to the local economy and the shipping industry.
Enter Now and Get Ready to Sail Into Spring!
Make sure your entry is submitted before the deadline of March 14, 2025, at 4:59 p.m. ET to secure your chance at winning incredible prizes and to be part of the exciting countdown to the first ship’s arrival!
Good luck, Cleveland! Let’s get ready to set sail!
For additional details or any questions about the contest, please visit the Port of Cleveland’s website or reach out to firstship@portofcleveland.com.
Port of Cleveland Looks to 2025 with Optimism, Key Projects & Growth Ahead
Port of Cleveland Looks to 2025 with Optimism, Key Projects & Growth Ahead
A letter from David Gutheil, our Interim President & CEO:
As we begin 2025, we reflect on both the challenges and triumphs that have shaped our path. While we were saddened by the departure of Will Friedman, whose leadership, and contributions over more than a decade were instrumental to the Port of Cleveland’s growth and success, we look forward with optimism. Thanks to the support of our Board of Directors and the dedication of our incredible staff, we have a strong strategic plan which was enacted in 2023, which will continue to guide our efforts as we embark on this exciting new chapter.
Our focus remains on building and maintaining a strong, sustainable, and multi-source financial foundation for the Port. The latest analysis shows that the port and maritime sector now generate more than 23,000 jobs and have an economic impact exceeding $7 billion—a notable increase of $2.3 billion since 2021. I am confident that in 2025, we will continue to build on this momentum.
Items to watch in 2025:
- Electrification Hub and Modernization of General Cargo Terminal
A major step forward in our commitment to decarbonizing the port, modernizing our facilities, and enhancing our operational capabilities will be the upgrade of our General Cargo Terminal. This project will rehabilitate key infrastructure and significantly enhance the terminal’s electrical systems as part of our decarbonization efforts. This initiative is crucial to ensuring the Port remains competitive, sustainable, and prepared for the future. - Cruise Season
The cruise industry is experiencing exciting growth here in Cleveland. In 2025, the number of cruise ship stops is expected to more than double with the return of Victory Cruise Lines to the Great Lakes. We anticipate more than 50 cruise ship calls in Cleveland in 2025, up from just 22 in 2024—an impressive milestone that will continue to boost our local economy and elevate Cleveland’s standing as a major port of call on the Great Lakes. - Logistec Agreement
The Port of Cleveland has approved a new long-term contract with Logistec USA Inc. to serve as our General Cargo terminal operator. This partnership will significantly enhance our operating revenues and represents a key step in advancing the Port’s financial sustainability. - Infrastructure Projects
Progress continues on several major infrastructure and urban planning projects, including the stabilization of Irishtown Bend and the Cleveland Harbor Eastern Embayment Resilience (CHEERS) project. These efforts are vital to preserving and improving Cleveland’s waterfront, ensuring the long-term health of the local maritime economy, and contributing to the region’s resilience against climate change.
As we look ahead to 2025, I am confident that we will continue to see growth, innovation, and progress in all areas.”
Sincerely,
Dave Gutheil
Interim President & CEO/Chief Commercial Officer, Port of Cleveland
Logistec USA Winter Hours Update – Effective January 27, 2025
Logistec USA Winter Hours Update – Effective January 27, 2025
Starting the week of January 27, 2025, Logistec USA will be transitioning to winter hours, which will include a 4-day workweek and closure on Fridays until further notice.
Winter Loading Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
- Friday: Closed
For those picking up loads on Monday, please ensure that pickup requests are submitted to cbb-ops@logistec.com no later than 2:00 PM on Thursday. Logistec kindly requests that all cargo needs be planned accordingly to avoid any disruptions.
Important Reminder:
Requests sent on Friday will not be monitored and will be rejected. Carriers and brokers are advised that they will be responsible for any delays or issues arising from late pickup requests.
Thank you for your understanding, and please plan your logistics accordingly during this period.
Port of Cleveland Supports New Partnership Between EarthCam and K&D Management: Live Views of Cleveland's Thriving Waterfront
Port of Cleveland Supports New Partnership Between EarthCam and K&D Management: Live Views of Cleveland's Thriving Waterfront
CLEVELAND, OHIO – The Port of Cleveland is excited to support a new partnership between EarthCam and K&D Management that brings live, panoramic views from the iconic Terminal Tower to a global audience. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity for anyone, anywhere, to experience the vibrant energy of downtown Cleveland, including stunning sunsets over Lake Erie, the dynamic maritime traffic along the Cuyahoga River, and the ever-evolving Cleveland skyline.
Terminal Tower, a 52-story landmark skyscraper located at the heart of Public Square, has long been a symbol of Cleveland’s rich history and its bright future. Now, thanks to EarthCam’s cutting-edge camera technology, viewers around the world can enjoy a live-streamed perspective from the top of this architectural gem. The live feed captures not only the beauty of the city’s waterfront but also the essential activities of the Port of Cleveland, where ships, barges, and vessels navigate the Cuyahoga River in and out of the port.
While the Port of Cleveland is not directly involved in the partnership, we are proud to support this initiative, which highlights our dynamic waterfront and its importance to the regional economy. Through these live streams, people can see firsthand the busy operations on the river, as well as the scenic beauty of the Cleveland skyline and the daily rhythms of the Lake Erie shoreline.
“This new collaboration is a wonderful way to showcase the Port of Cleveland’s importance to the city and to the broader Great Lakes region,” said a representative for the Port of Cleveland. “The maritime activity along the Cuyahoga River plays a critical role in the local economy, and it’s exciting to see that this partnership allows people from around the world to witness that firsthand.”
The live streams also provide an opportunity for Cleveland residents, visitors, and potential investors to gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s waterfront and its role in both the local and national economy. From the bustling shipping lanes to the picturesque sunsets over the lake, these views highlight the intersection of industry and natural beauty that make Cleveland such a unique place.
As Cleveland continues to grow and evolve, initiatives like this demonstrate the city’s commitment to innovation and community engagement. The partnership highlights not only the vibrant maritime industry that fuels our economy but also the unique beauty of the city’s waterfront, making it a must-see for both locals and virtual tourists alike.
CLICK HERE to watch the live streams and experience Cleveland’s dynamic waterfront. There you can see the hustle and bustle of the port, stunning views of Lake Erie, and the ever-expanding Cleveland skyline—all in real time!
Port of Cleveland partners with Seaman's Service to host annual 'Christmas at Sea' event
Port of Cleveland partners with Seaman's Service to host annual 'Christmas at Sea' event
The Port of Cleveland, in collaboration with the Seaman’s Service, was proud to host its annual “Christmas at Sea” event on December 18. The special holiday celebration aims to bring joy and cheer to the captain and crew members of visiting vessels. This year, those on board the Federal Bering and Juno were the recipients of the holiday gifts and essential necessities distribution.
During the “Christmas at Sea’ festivities , in addition to the distribution, representatives from the Port of Cleveland and Seaman’s Service met with the vessels’ captain and crew members sharing a meal and singing carols.
The initiative aims to recognize the hard work and dedication of those who spend their holidays at sea, away from their families.
“This is a heartfelt tradition that brings the spirit of the season to those who often spend it far from home,” said a spokesperson for the Port of Cleveland. “We’re thrilled to partner with Seaman’s Service to ensure that these hardworking individuals feel appreciated and connected to the Cleveland community during this special time of year.”
About the Port of Cleveland:
The Port of Cleveland is a vital economic engine for the region, facilitating trade, commerce, and tourism, and supporting the growth of the local economy through its commitment to providing world class maritime services.
About the Seaman’s Service:
The Seaman’s Service was founded in 1964 in response to the opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway, Cleveland Seamen’s Service (CSS) supports crew members of international cargo ships at the Port of Cleveland providing information about the city and the services available to the crew.
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’s Green Marine certification renewed
Port’s Green Marine certification renewed
The Port’s Green Marine certification was recently renewed. Green Marine is a voluntary environmental certification program for the North American marine industry. It targets prioritized environmental issues such as greenhouse gases, community impacts and water and land pollution. To get re-certified, the Port had to benchmark annual environmental performance through exhaustive self-evaluation guides, have results verified and agree to publication of those results.
The Port of Cleveland was a founding member of the Green Marine program in 2007. In the recertification, the Port achieved “continual improvement” by improving levels in both the Air Emissions – Greenhouse Gases and Community Relations performance indicators.
Inner-city and suburban development projects get $70.2 million in boosts from Port
Inner-city and suburban development projects get $70.2 million in boosts from Port
The Port’s development finance team is issuing up to $70.2 million in bonds for several new construction and redevelopment projects. Those include:
- $32 million in tax-exempt, multifamily housing revenue bonds for an extensive renovation of the 191 unit Gates Mills Villa Apartment Building in Mayfield Heights. The $48 million project includes modernization of all units, significant upgrades to common spaces, mechanical repairs and replacements, new free WIFI, new windows, new roofs, landscaping and other site improvements. The property serves elderly tenants, age 62 and older, and 167 of the 191 units are under Section 8 contracts.
- $15 million in bonds for the development of a new residential project and rehabilitation of a historic building into residential in Ohio City. The $19.8 million Franklin Yard project, located at the corner of Franklin Boulevard and West 32nd street, will include construction of a modern new three-story apartment building with 29 units and restoration of a former YWCA women’s residence and a mid-19 century mansion that will create an additional 38 units.
- $15 million in lease revenue bonds for the 46 two and three bedroom affordable housing apartments and 8 two-bedroom market rate units to be known as the Gordon Crossing Project in Cleveland’s Hough neighborhood. The new $17.1 million project is expected to begin construction in Q2 2024. Woda Cooper Development Inc. and Frontline Development Group LLC are partnering on the project. Woda Cooper operates more than 350 properties with 16,000 housing units in 16 states. Frontline Development Group, LLC is a female led, minority owned real estate development company based in Cleveland, Ohio. Frontline develops real estate projects that are committed to innovative economic development and partners at each step of the development to grow the balance sheets of economically and socially underutilized businesses.
- $8.2 million of taxable bonds for construction of a cargo and aircraft storage hangar, cargo terminal, pass-through passenger terminal and vehicle parking spaces for Jets FBO at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The total project is planned to cost $12.6 million. Jets FBO and its subsidiary provide Ohio airports with fixed base operator aircraft services, including aircraft storage, fuel sales and de-icing.
Port authorities in Ohio can offer an array of benefits in the real estate and economic development space. Since 1993, the Port of Cleveland has provided more than $5 billion to more than 160 projects in Cuyahoga County and beyond.