Press Releases

CLEVELAND – March 13, 2025 – Two transformative projects — a nearly $50 million West Side Market overhaul and a $44 million Superior Arts District mixed use project — received significant support today from the Port of Cleveland board of directors.

“These projects will redo two historical properties in our city and we are proud to be able to help make both projects happen,” said J. Stefan Holmes, Port board chair. “The West Side Market is a cherished institution that attracts visitors from around the world, some of them who arrive via cruise ships using our Port. And the textile building project will bring much needed housing and retail space to a growing, vibrant neighborhood.”

Revitalizing the West Side Market

The $49.5 million West Side Market transformation will breathe new life into the 112-year-old landmark. The market’s metamorphosis involves renovation of the Market Hall, adjacent arcades and the basement. The capital lease financing approved by the Port Board allows exemption of state sales and local taxes on construction materials.

Renovations will begin this summer, starting with the East Arcade, a largely vacant produce hall between the parking lot and the main market building. Early improvements will include:

• New HVAC systems and upgraded vendor stalls.
• Basement renovations featuring mechanical upgrades, walk-in coolers, a shared commercial kitchen and a new freight elevator.

Future phases will transform the North Arcade and Courtyard into vibrant destinations with new seating areas, restaurants, event spaces, food stalls, full-service bars and public dining options.

“We have one of the most stunning market structures in the country, and this initiative is focused not only on preserving this vital historic treasure, but also supporting small businesses and having greater community impact,” said Rosemary Mudry, executive director of the Cleveland Public Market Corporation, the non-profit that manages the West Side Market for the City of Cleveland, which owns the property. “We have received tremendous support from many partners and we are immensely grateful to the Port for their assistance in making this great regional asset even better.”

“The West Side Market is a cherished institution that attracts visitors from around the world, including some who arrive via cruise ships using our Port,” said Holmes. “We’re proud to support this vital renovation, which will ensure the Market continues to thrive for generations to come.”

A New Chapter for the Superior Arts District

The Port Board also approved issuing up to $25 million in lease revenue bonds to support TurnDev’s redevelopment of the historic Heller-Keller-Kohn textile buildings at 2202 and 2230 Superior Avenue, converting them from old textile buildings into a mixed-use development. The project will include:

• 100 market-rate apartments.
• 2,261 square feet of street-level retail space.
• 108 climate-controlled parking spaces

The two former industrial buildings housed garment manufacturing operations until the later part of the 20th century. The project is across the street from the CrossCounty Mortgage headquarters, which TurnDev led. TurnDev is renovating Superior Avenue’s historic ArtCraft building into Cleveland’s new police headquarters.

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Since 1993, the Port of Cleveland has provided over $5.4 billion in financing for close to 200 projects across Cuyahoga County and beyond, playing a pivotal role in the region’s economic transformation. The Port’s financing initiatives have consistently catalyzed growth, revitalized communities, and strengthened Northeast Ohio’s economic foundation. As demand for these services continues to rise, the Port remains a driving force behind strategic development that shapes the region’s future.

Holmes added: “The Port is proud to support investments that create jobs, attract residents, and strengthen our neighborhoods.”

Contact: Nancy Lesic, 216.392.9634

CLEVELAND – March 13, 2025 – The Port of Cleveland’s Board of Directors today elected David Wondolowski as the new Chair of the Board, alongside J. Stefan Holmes as Vice Chair and Peggy Zone Fisher as Secretary/Fiscal Officer.

Wondolowski expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Board at such an important time.

“I’m honored to take the helm of this vital organization,” said Wondolowski. “I deeply respect the trust placed in me, and I’m committed to building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessor. The Port plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and connecting our region to the world, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance that mission.”

The Board expressed its appreciation to outgoing Chair Holmes for his dedicated service, recognizing his steady leadership and commitment to the Board. His guidance has been instrumental in advancing key initiatives that have strengthened Cleveland’s position as a hub for commerce and development.

CLEVELAND – February 13, 2025 – The Port of Cleveland continues to play a critical role in advancing redevelopment projects across Northeast Ohio, today approving financing, sales tax savings, and PACE bonds to support more than $97 million in transformative projects in Cleveland and Lakewood.

The approved projects include the redevelopment of a historic Ohio City property, the transformation of a former auto dealership in Lakewood, and the construction of a new senior living and library facility on Cleveland’s west side.

Together, these projects will add more than 300 new apartments, including 51 units of affordable senior housing, along with commercial and community spaces.

With this latest action, the Port has now approved more than $850 million in financing assistance since January 2024.

The projects approved today are:

· Barry Buick Redevelopment (Lakewood) – $24.4 Million Lease Revenue Bonds The Port approved $24.4 million in lease revenue bonds to support the redevelopment of the former Barry Buick auto dealership and service center on Detroit Road. The $30.5 million project will feature two four-story mixed-use buildings with 124 apartments and 1,500 square feet of commercial space. Construction is slated to begin in Q1 2025 and finish by Q2 2026. The development is led by NewBrook Partners and The Krueger Group.

· Rauch & Lang Carriage Company (Voss Aerospace Building, Ohio City)– Capital Lease and $8 Million PACE Bond Fund Bonds

The Port is partnering with MRN Ltd subsidiaries to redevelop the historic Voss Aerospace building into Rauch & Lang Carriage Company, a $51.6 million mixed-use project. The Port will provide sales tax savings through a capital lease and issue $8 million in PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) bonds for energy efficiency improvements. The project will include 129 apartments, 8,000 square feet of commercial space, 5,000 square feet of retail/restaurant space, and parking for 122 vehicles.

Originally constructed in the 1870s, the building played a key role in Cleveland’s carriage and auto industries before being repurposed for materials handling. Construction is expected to begin in Q1 2025, with completion by end of year 2026. The project is led by MRN’s Jori Maron, a developer with more than 20 years of experience redeveloping historic properties in Cleveland.

· Karam Senior Living & Walz Library (Cleveland’s West Side) – $5 million in lease revenue bonds

The Port is partnering with Northwest Neighborhoods CDC and Salus Development LLC to develop the $21.2 million Karam Senior Living featuring 51 affordable senior apartments and a new branch of the Cleveland Public Library at 7918 Detroit Avenue. The Port is providing a capital lease to provide sales tax savings to the project.

Located at West 80th Street and Detroit Avenue, Karam Senior Living will include a community room, laundry facilities, on-site parking, and a wellness center. Construction is scheduled to begin in Q1 2025, with completion in Q3 2026.

Northwest Neighborhoods, a community development corporation (CDC) is the nonprofit provider of affordable housing and community development services for Cudell, Detroit Shoreway and Edgewater on Cleveland’s west side.

The CDC’s executive director, Bridget Kent Marquez, said, “The Port has been another key partner in the interconnected relationships that are ensuring success for this catalytic project.”

“The Port Authority continues to be a pivotal force in advancing redevelopment across the Cleveland region,” said J. Stefan Holmes, Port Board Chair. “We are proud to support these projects that will transform key sites, create much-needed housing, and enhance our communities.”

Since 1993, the Port of Cleveland has provided over $5.4 billion in financing for close to 200 projects across Cuyahoga County and beyond, playing a pivotal role in the region’s economic transformation. The Port’s financing initiatives have consistently catalyzed growth, revitalized communities, and strengthened Northeast Ohio’s economic foundation. As demand for these services continues to rise, the Port remains a driving force behind strategic development that shapes the region’s future.

In 2024 alone, the Port approved 20 projects totaling $753 million in development financing—making it the second-highest revenue year for development finance in its history. Notably, the Port set a new record for revenue while keeping expenses under budget, reinforcing its commitment to fiscal responsibility and high-impact investments.

CLEVELAND, February 13, 2025 – The Port of Cleveland has approved a $110,000 grant to Argonaut, a nonprofit organization that provides maritime and aviation career training to students at Davis Aerospace and Maritime High School in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. This hands-on program not only prepares students for future careers in the maritime industry but also enhances critical safety operations on the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie.

With this funding, Argonaut will continue to increase the of students in its Marine Safety Program, expanding opportunities for Cleveland high school students to gain real-world experience in maritime careers and strengthen their connection to the city’s growing waterfront economy.

The Port’s grant will allow Argonaut to:

· Expand student participation in the Marine Safety Programs

· Strengthen maritime and waterfront education and training programs

· Enhance youth workforce training opportunities in a high-demand industry

· Support ongoing safety operations for Cleveland’s recreational and commercial maritime communities

“We are committed to ensuring that economic development benefits every corner of our community,” said Carl Naso, Port CFO. “Argonaut has been a vital partner in providing hands-on workforce training while also playing a critical role in keeping our waterways safe. This grant allows them to expand their impact, providing more Cleveland students with career opportunities while bolstering safety on the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie.”

Argonaut’s program gives students real-world experience while contributing to public safety efforts on Cleveland’s waterways. In 2023, Argonaut’s crew:

· Assisted 91 ships navigating Cleveland’s harbor

· Partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard and emergency services on 123 missions

· Led 10 active in-water rescues and assisted with 32 additional rescue operations

Additional Argonaut programs help keep Cleveland’s waterways clean. Students use specially designed tandem vessels, Flotsam and Jetsam, to remove floating debris from the Cuyahoga River and Inner Harbor. Four active Davis students and two Davis graduates manage clean-up

efforts four days a week after school and throughout the summer. They also gain hands-on experience with mechanical, fueling, safety inspections, and vessel operations.

The Port of Cleveland contracts with Argonaut to captain the vessels and work with students.

By combining education, workforce development, and public safety, Argonaut is creating a pipeline of future leaders in Cleveland’s growing waterfront economy.

“The Port’s continued investment in the future of Cleveland’s maritime workforce is invaluable,” said Drew Ferguson, Founder and CEO of Argonaut. “This funding allows us to provide students with immersive, real-world learning experiences while making Cleveland’s waterways cleaner, safer, and more accessible for everyone.”

A number of Argonaut graduates at the Port board meeting told stories about how life-changing the program has been for their career trajectories.

The Port’s Community Investment Fund —made possible by the success of the Port’s development finance program—is funded by 10% of revenues from development finance projects. This ensures that the Port’s economic development efforts create tangible benefits for historically disadvantaged communities by supporting workforce training, economic opportunity, and community improvement initiatives.

Since its launch, the Community Investment Fund has supported a range of impactful projects across Cuyahoga County. With this latest grant, the Port’s total investment in Argonaut now totals $380,000 since 2019, underscoring its long-term commitment to strengthening Cleveland’s workforce, creating educational opportunities for students, and improving quality of life for the region.

CLEVELAND – Dec. 12, 2024—The Port of Cleveland has approved a new contract with Logistec USA Inc. to be the terminal operator for the 2025 shipping season, a partnership expected to significantly increase operating revenues.

Logistec, a Montreal-based company with operations at 91 terminals across 62 North American port locations, has been providing terminal services at the Cleveland Bulk Terminal since 2017 and the General Cargo Terminal since 2019. These terminals are critical to the regional economy, handling essential materials like iron ore and limestone as well as various general cargo. The Port’s General Cargo Terminal handles between 350,000 and 550,000 metric tons of cargo annually.

Under the new contract, which runs from April 1, 2025, through March 31, 2026, the increase in the fixed charges and tonnage assessment annually paid to the Port by Logistec will result in significant improvements to the Port’s operating revenues.

The agreement is expected to bring in significant additional operating revenue based on a baseline of 350,000 metric tons, with Cleveland Terminal Tariff charges projected to separately generate additional operating revenue.

“This agreement is a win-win for the Port,” said David Gutheil, Chief Commercial Officer at the Port of Cleveland. “Logistec has been an exceptional partner, working with us to attract new cargo opportunities and drive growth at our terminals, an example of which were the three cranes that moved through the Port earlier this year that were destined to the Intel project near Columbus. They’ve played an instrumental role in broadening the Port’s capabilities, ensuring that our facilities are competitive and attractive to a diverse array of industries.”

Terminal operators like Logistec are the backbone of modern port operations, ensuring the efficient movement of goods through facilities that serve as gateways to the global economy. Their work involves handling diverse types of cargo, maintaining equipment and managing workforce logistics. By optimizing these operations, terminal operators enable ports like Cleveland to attract and retain shipping partners, support regional industries and drive economic growth.

Gutheil emphasized Logistec’s commitment to operational excellence and environmental sustainability, values that align closely with the Port’s strategic goals. Their extensive North American network and specialized expertise make them uniquely equipped to manage the Port’s complex and growing cargo demands.

Gutheil said the Port has a good relationship with the Logistec management team, which is expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future.

Rodney Corrigan, President of Logistec Stevedoring Inc., said, “We are proud to continue our partnership with the Port of Cleveland. Together, we are driving sustainable growth and enhancing the region’s supply chain capabilities. Cleveland is a critical hub in the Great Lakes, and we are committed to delivering exceptional service to our customers and stakeholders.”

Cleveland – November 19, 2024—David Gutheil has been appointed as the interim leader for the Port of Cleveland, set to take over in January following the departure of Will Friedman who is stepping down from his role at the end of this year.

“We are fortunate to have someone as experienced and trusted as Dave ready to step in,” said J. Stefan Holmes, Port board chair. “As we announced when Will shared his decision to move on, the board is committed to finding a successor with experience in maritime transportation, development finance and economic development. As we look for a permanent successor, we are fully confident in the guiding hands of Dave.”

Holmes said the board will be engaging a search committee for the permanent successor.

Gutheil has been with the Port of Cleveland more than 14 years, most recently as Chief Commercial Officer, a position he was named to in March 2018.  In this role, he has led all operational and business development functions of the Port’s maritime division, including management of tenant and client relationships, overseeing strategic planning and driving cargo development initiatives.

He has played an integral role in various high profile projects, including securing over $90 million of infrastructure upgrades at the general cargo and bulk terminals, which have increased efficiency of cargo movements in and out of the Port by more than 35%. He has also developed new cruise vessel business for the Port and developed strategic alliances with partners such as OmniTrax, which has increased rail activity and efficiencies at the general cargo terminal, and Logistec USA, which operates the Port’s bulk and general cargo terminals.

Gutheil previously was the Port’s Vice President, Maritime and Logistics. He led development of the Cleveland-Europe Express, the first container service at the Port and a Great Lakes game changer.

“I am honored by the Board’s trust in me,” said Gutheil. “Our commitment to our community and business partners remains strong, and I look forward to supporting the Port’s continued growth and positive impact on the region, including the bold initiatives started under Will Friedman.”

In October, Friedman announced his decision to step down from his role following the expiration of his contract. His 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.

Cleveland – November 14, 2024— The Port of Cleveland today approved the issuance of more than $171 million in bonds and notes for four transformative projects, including the pivotal first new development in Bedrock’s Riverfront project along the Cuyahoga River and a major affordable housing renovation in downtown Cleveland, among other strategic initiatives.

This brings the total development bonds approved by the Port in 2024 to approximately $753 million, underscoring its pivotal role in advancing the economic landscape of Northeast Ohio.

“The projects approved today are a good showcase of the Port’s ability to add value to a diverse group of projects during a time when projects are a challenge to get done. Today’s approvals assist in moving forward a riverfront development to bring Cleveland closer to an 18-hour 15-minute neighborhood, give non-profits access to the tax-exempt bond market, provide PACE financing through collaboration with another port, and rehabilitate a low-income property in downtown, Cleveland,” said Rhonda Winslow, Vice President of Development Finance.

The projects  approved today include:

• The Cleveland Clinic Global Peak Performance Center – Up to $50 million in taxable lease revenue bonds will help fund this 153,247-square-foot athletic training and medical facility. This over $200 million project is a cornerstone of the $3.5 billion Riverfront development being executed by Bedrock and will house a new training facility for the Cavaliers, with completion expected in 2027.
• Allerton Apartments Renovation – Up to $34 million in tax-exempt multifamily housing revenue notes will support a $60 million overhaul of the Allerton Apartments at 1802 E. 13th St. in downtown Cleveland. This critical affordable housing project will modernize 199 Section 8 units within a 15-story, 146,094-square-foot building, ensuring continued access to quality housing for low-income residents.
• Medical Center Company Expansion – Up to $80 million in variable-rate revenue bonds will refinance existing bonds and fund the expansion of steam and chilled water services to University Circle non-profits, primarily Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals’ Case Medical Center. This expansion will enhance operational efficiency and support future growth in this essential district. The Medical Center Company also serves The Cleveland Museum of Art, The Church of the Covenant, The Musical Arts Association (Severance Hall), the Cleveland Botanical Garden, The Cleveland Medical Library Association and the Cleveland Institute of Art.
• Central Mutual Insurance Company Headquarters Repairs – Up to $7.4 million in PACE bonds will support $12.3 million in repairs to the Central Mutual Insurance headquarters in Van Wert, Ohio. This project, in partnership with the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, will strengthen infrastructure for a major property and casualty insurer serving 24 states, and helps to geographically diversify the Port’s bond fund portfolio.

“The financing projects approved by the Board throughout 2024 highlight the critical role our agency plays in Northeast Ohio’s development,” said J. Stefan Holmes, Port board chair.  “I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish this year.

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.