Loading
Skip to main content

Manning Announces Funding for City of Lorain Black River Dredge Reuse Facility

April 4, 2022
Nathan H. Manning News
 
COLUMBUS—State Senator Nathan Manning (R-North Ridgeville) announced today the state has awarded the Lorain sediment processing facility a $15 million grant. The money will be used to help keep the Lorain Harbor adequately dredged.

Shipping is a vital part of Ohio's economy. The harbors on Lake Erie support 187,500 jobs and $34.7 billion in annual business revenue. This grant will help protect Ohio's shipping industry, as well as significantly improve water quality in Lake Erie by preventing nutrients that would cause algal blooms.

"This is a win-win for our environment and Ohio's economy," said Manning. "Lake Erie harbors require regular dredging to allow ships to safely pass. It is imperative we keep this economic lifeline afloat, especially while the country is experiencing severe supply chain disruptions."

"The City of Lorain is proud to partner with the State of Ohio on the development and construction of the City of Lorain Black River Dredge Reuse Facility. Ensuring the Black River's navigability and providing long-term protection for Lake Erie is critical to the City and all users of our great lake," said Lorain Mayor Jack Bradley. "We are poised to begin final design and construction, and look forward to the long-term utilization of the facility."

The $15 million grant is Lorain's share of $45 million the state Controlling Board awarded Monday to four harbors on Lake Erie. Those funds come from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and were made available under the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to support state efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.