Port of Cleveland Approves $8 Million in Project Management Contracts for Bulk Terminal Modernization and Emissions-Cutting Electrification Work
Port of Cleveland Approves $8 Million in Project Management Contracts for Bulk Terminal Modernization and Emissions-Cutting Electrification WorkInvestments support critical infrastructure upgrades and advance Port’s goal to become first Great Lakes port with net-zero emissions by 2050
Cleveland – June 12, 2025— The Port of Cleveland Board of Directors has approved nearly $8 million in project management contracts to support two major initiatives: modernizing the iron ore conveyance system at the Cleveland Bulk Terminal and overseeing critical infrastructure rehabilitation and electrification efforts at the Port’s general cargo dock.
A $5.2 million contract with The Ruhlin Company will provide construction management for the aging iron ore conveyor system at the Bulk Terminal. This system plays a vital role in the regional steel supply chain, moving ore from lake freighters and loading it onto smaller vessels for delivery up the Cuyahoga River to the steel mill.
The Port acquired the iron ore terminal in 1997 and since then has invested significantly in modernizing the site’s infrastructure. In 2021, the Port extended the tunnel and conveyor system to allow for taconite blending and increased throughput. However, the original segment of the system is now nearing the end of its useful life and is in need of major rehabilitation —a project expected to take at least two years, according to Dave Gutheil, interim CEO and chief commercial officer.
Modernizing Key Infrastructure and Advancing Port Electrification
The board also approved a $2.7 million agreement with Jacobs Engineering to manage a multi-phase infrastructure and electrification project that will significantly reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency. This work will help reduce carbon emissions of port operations by 40 percent and makes considerable progress towards the Port’s Climate Action Plan.
This initiative includes the rehabilitation of Warehouse A, the Port’s largest warehouse built in 1975, as well as major electrical infrastructure enhancements to support clean energy operations. The effort includes installation of rooftop solar panels, battery energy storage, microgrid technology in partnership with Cleveland Public Power, and electric equipment across port facilities. Key upgrades include:
· Ten electric forklifts and charging stations (replacing six diesel units)
· A new electric mobile harbor crane
· Two electric tugboats and associated charging infrastructure procured and installed by Great Lakes Company
· Shore power installation at Dock 24
· Rooftop solar and microgrid systems at Warehouse A
Jacobs Engineering will provide day-to-day oversight of these improvements, which are expected to be completed by December 2028.
A Climate-Driven Investment in Cleveland’s Maritime Future
The Port’s modernization efforts are supported by two major public grants: $27.2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration and $4.9 million from the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Maritime Assistance Program. Together, these investments are transforming the Port of Cleveland into a national model for sustainable shipping.
These infrastructure and electrification upgrades are projected to cut the Port’s carbon emissions by 40 percent—a major step toward achieving the goals outlined in the Port’s Climate Action Plan, which calls for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Once completed, the Port of Cleveland will be the first Great Lakes port to implement such an ambitious and comprehensive decarbonization strategy, reinforcing its leadership in climate-forward maritime innovation.
In other business, the Port of Cleveland welcomed Catherine Tompkins, Senior Counsel at KeyBank, as the newest member of its Board of Directors, appointed by County Executive Chris Ronayne and replacing Andrew Jackson. Tompkins brings extensive financial expertise and deep knowledge of credit risk management to the board. Her appointment begins Thursday, and she is expected to play an important role in guiding the Port’s ongoing infrastructure investments and long-term strategic planning.
Notice of Special Meeting of the Ad Hoc Executive Search Committee : June 16, 2025
Cleveland, OH (June 9, 2025) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC EXECUTIVE SEARCH COMMITTEE OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Executive Search 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 Monday, June 16, 2025 at 1:00 p.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 the appointment, employment and compensation of a public employee. The Committee intends on adjourning into Executive Session after convening the meeting and considering approval of the May 8, 2025 Committee Meeting Minutes, and will only reconvene to adjourn the meeting.
/s/ David Wondolowski
David Wondolowski, Chair
New Documentary Spotlights the Port of Cleveland on the Unsung Heroes Powering America’s Industrial Backbone
New Documentary Spotlights the Port of Cleveland on the Unsung Heroes Powering America’s Industrial Backbone
CLEVELAND — The Port of Cleveland debuted a powerful new documentary shining a spotlight on Cleveland and the working-class heroes behind the steel that drives America. “Made in America: How the Port of Cleveland Supports the Region’s Economy” is a cinematic tribute to the people, processes and places that form the backbone of US industry.
Underscored by stunning visuals of the Great Lakes and bustling docks, the film tells the story of how raw materials flow through the Port of Cleveland and become high-strength steel that supports America’s cars, appliances, bridges and buildings.
“This one is for the masters of American craftsmanship,” opens the narrator, setting the tone for a story that honors the laborers whose hands forge the future of the nation — from miners and longshoremen to steelworkers and ship captains.
At the center of the story is the Port of Cleveland, a critical hub for transporting iron ore from the mines of the upper Great Lakes to Cleveland-Cliffs’ steel mill, where it is transformed into finished steel.
We are proud to be part of a process that is not only made in America, but made with American strength, innovation, and pride,” said David Gutheil, interim CEO of the Port. Through interviews with port officials, manufacturing leaders, and vessel line executives, the documentary sheds light on the essential — and often overlooked — supply chains that underpin U.S. manufacturing. With over 23,000 jobs tied to the Port of Cleveland and $7.07 billion in annual economic activity generated, the film makes clear the port’s local and national significance.
“Each steel coil is produced for a specific customer to ensure they get the right product at the right time in the right way,” said Chad Asgaard, General Manager, Cleveland-Cliffs, in the film.
The documentary also addresses the Port’s forward-looking environmental and technological initiatives — including new ore tunnel extensions and eco-conscious logistics — positioning it as a model of modernization and sustainability.
With stakes reaching beyond Northeast Ohio, the film touches on broader economic themes. According to a Department of Homeland Security report cited in the documentary, the closure of a single lock in Northern Michigan could plunge the nation into recession, highlighting just how vital Great Lakes shipping is to the national economy.
“This is more than a story of steel,” Gutheil said. “Made in America is a tribute to the strength, resilience, and the enduring legacy of American industry.”
CLICK HERE to watch!
Notice of Special Meeting of the AD Hoc Governance Committee: June 18, 2025
Cleveland, OH (June 4, 2025) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE
OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Governance 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 Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 9:00 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 discuss federal grant funding requirements.
/s/ David Wondolowski
David Wondolowski, Chair
Advertisement for Qualifications and Proposals for Bank Depository Services And Letter of Credit
Advertisement for Qualifications and Proposals for Bank Depository Services And Letter of Credit
Advertisement for
Qualifications and Proposals for Bank Depository Services
And Letter of Credit for
Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority
Cleveland, Ohio
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on June 12, 2025, the Board of Directors of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority (CCCPA) will be designating its public depository(ies) of active and interim monies for the five-year period beginning July 20, 2025 pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Chapter 135. The aggregate maximum amount of active funds that has been estimated by the Board of Directors to be available for deposit in one or more accounts at any one time during that period is $35 million. The aggregate maximum amount of interim funds that has been estimated by the Board of Directors to be available for deposit in one or more accounts at any one time during that period is $15 million. Additionally, the CCCPA is seeking proposals from qualified financial institutions to provide a $12 million Program Reserve Letter of Credit (“LC”) that will be used to enhance the Port Authority’s Bond Fund Program with a negotiable, but expected, term of 3 years, effective no later than December 1, 2027.
Solicitation Schedule
RFQP Issue Date: May 09, 2025
Deadline for Submitting Questions: May 23, 2025, 5:00 PM (EST)
RFQP Response Due Date: June 04, 2025, 5:00 PM (EST)
Contact: Carl Naso (216) 377-1340
or Carl.Naso@portofcleveland.com
Please visit the CCCPA’s website, portofcleveland.com, to obtain a copy of the RFQP
and for more detailed information.
Under no circumstance will the CCCPA be responsible for any cost incurred by any
respondent in responding to the RFQP.
Neither the Respondent nor its agents, lobbyists, attorneys or other parties representing
the interests of the Respondent shall contact members of the CCCPA Board of Directors
with regard to this project or process. Any such contact shall be grounds for automatic
disqualification of the potential Respondent and its proposal.
Notice of Special Meeting of the AD Hoc Executive Search Committee: May 8, 2025
Cleveland, OH (May 5, 2025) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC EXECUTIVE SEARCH COMMITTEE OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Executive Search 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, May 8, 2025 at 9:00 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 the appointment, employment and compensation of a public employee. The Committee intends on adjourning into Executive Session after convening the meeting and considering approval of the April 10, 2025 Committee Meeting Minutes, and will only reconvene to adjourn the meeting.
/s/ David Wondolowski
David Wondolowski, Chair
Notice of Funding Opportunity: Community Investment Fund Grant Cycle Now Open!
Notice of Funding: Community Investment Fund Grant Cycle Now Open!
The Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority is now accepting applications for the 2025 Community Investment Fund (CIF) Grant Cycle, with $270,000 in no-match grant funds available to support community, workforce, and maritime-focused initiatives across Cuyahoga County.
This grant program helps nonprofit organizations access capital for projects that align with the Port’s mission—promoting job creation, economic development, and equitable access to maritime industry opportunities.
🔑 Key Information
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Total Funds Available: $270,000
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Grant Size: $25,000 minimum / $100,000 maximum per organization
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Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit organizations located in Cuyahoga County involved in:
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Maritime development or navigation safety
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Workforce development & job training
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Environmental sustainability
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International trade
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Community improvement and equity
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Ineligible Uses Include:
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Lobbying or political activities
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Entertainment or personal expenses
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Completed or non-aligned projects
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Legal disputes or unpaid taxes
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🗓 Important Dates
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Application Opens: May 1, 2025
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Deadline to Apply: June 15, 2025
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Award Notifications: July 10, 2025
✅ Application Highlights
Applicants must:
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Clearly outline project scope and impact
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Demonstrate alignment with the Port’s mission and CIF goals
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Submit financials, staff/board list, and 3 professional references
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Show measurable outcomes (KPIs and reporting required)
📄 How to Apply
Click here to apply
For detailed guidelines and submission requirements, download the full Notice of Funding Opportunity by clicking the button at the top of the page.
📧 Questions? Contact: CommunityInvestment@portofcleveland.com
DISCLAIMER:
The Port Authority reserves the right to modify or cancel this funding opportunity at any time without prior notice. All decisions regarding grant awards are final and not subject to appeal. The foregoing Notice of Funding Opportunity does not constitute an offer or promise to do business with the Port Authority or any guarantee to do business or execute any binding agreement by and between the Port Authority and prospective applicants, applicants or the general public. All decisions, reviews and/or awards may be subject to the Port Authority’s Board of Directors’ approval and/or other applicable local and state law(s).
Port of Cleveland Welcomes First Ship of the Season
Port of Cleveland Welcomes First Ship of the Season
On Wednesday, April 2nd, the Port of Cleveland marked a significant milestone with the arrival of its first ship of the season. The Polsteam Pile, a newly built vessel (2024), docked at approximately 8:45 a.m., officially kicking off the busy season at the port.
Vice President of Operations and Facilities, Jared Magyar, along with Industrial Fleet & Operations Manager Rick Edberg, were on hand to welcome the vessel’s captain, Janusz Szatanik, and his crew to Cleveland. As part of the warm welcome, Captain Szatanik and the crew were presented with a Cleveland-themed gift box, complete with an assortment of cookies and other sweets to sweeten their arrival.
The Polsteam Pile is making its inaugural visit to Cleveland, marking its first-ever stop at the port and just its second trip to the United States. The vessel is unloading a remarkable 5,580 metric tons of steel, a valuable addition to the local economy. After its stop in Cleveland, the ship will continue its journey, heading to Burns Harbor and then to the Port of Milwaukee.
This marks an exciting start to the season for the Port of Cleveland, highlighting both its important role in global shipping and its ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships with partners and visitors. The arrival of the Polsteam Pile is just the beginning of what is expected to be a busy and productive year ahead for the port.
Notice of Special Meeting of the AD Hoc Executive Search Committee: April 10, 2025
Cleveland, OH (April 3, 2025) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC EXECUTIVE SEARCH COMMITTEE OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Executive Search 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, April 10, 2025 at 9:00 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 the appointment, employment and compensation of a public employee. The Committee intends on adjourning into Executive Session after convening the meeting and considering approval of the April 2, 2025 Committee Meeting Minutes, and will only reconvene to adjourn the meeting.
/s/ David Wondolowski
David Wondolowski, Chair
Notice of Special Meeting of the AD Hoc Executive Search Committee: April 5, 2025
Cleveland, OH (March 30, 2025) –
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
OF THE AD HOC EXECUTIVE SEARCH COMMITTEE OF THE
CLEVELAND-CUYAHOGA COUNTY PORT AUTHORITY
Please be advised that the Ad Hoc Executive Search 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 Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 2:00 p.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 the appointment, employment and compensation of a public employee. The Committee intends on adjourning into Executive Session after convening the meeting and considering approval of the March 13, 2025 Committee Meeting Minutes, and will only reconvene to adjourn the meeting.
/s/ David Wondolowski
David Wondolowski, Chair