The Cleveland–Cuyahoga County Port Authority (the Port of Cleveland) has been awarded $4.2 million through the Ohio Maritime Assistance Program (MAP), a competitive Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) grant program supporting strategic maritime infrastructure investments across Ohio.
The funding will support two Port-led construction projects — $2.7 million for the Dock 22 Rehabilitation and Operational Efficiency Project and $1.5 million for the CHEERS Early Action Breakwater Project — both designed to enhance maritime trade, strengthen waterfront infrastructure, and support long-term economic growth in Northeast Ohio.
“These investments strengthen the Port’s ability to move cargo efficiently, support regional economic growth, and extend the life of critical maritime infrastructure,” said Jeff Epstein, President and CEO of the Port of Cleveland. “We’re grateful to ODOT for recognizing the value of these projects and their impact on Ohio’s economy and supply chain.”
MAP provides funding to Ohio’s public port authorities for projects that enhance waterborne freight movement, expand cargo-handling capacity, and support economic development along Lake Erie and the Ohio River. Grants require a 50 percent local match and prioritize projects that deliver measurable transportation and economic benefits.
Planned improvements include:
- Construction of a vehicle maintenance and hiring hall annex adjacent to Warehouse A, featuring a two-bay garage for reach stackers and forklifts
- Concrete repaving and upgrades to stormwater and electrical infrastructure at Dock 22
- Bulkhead reinforcement to strengthen waterfront infrastructure
“These investments address long-standing infrastructure needs at Dock 22 and will significantly improve operational efficiency, safety, and reliability for our workforce and our customers,” said Dave Gutheil, Chief Operating Officer at the Port of Cleveland. “The continual process of modernizing our facilities is essential to supporting current and future cargo demands and will position the port for continued growth.”
These investments build on the Port’s recent momentum, including a $94 million Clean Ports grant and more than $105 million in infrastructure investments made by the Port of Cleveland over the past ten years. Planning and design are expected to continue through 2026, with construction anticipated to begin in early 2028 and conclude by mid-2030.
(Port of Cleveland photo)