The NOACA Governing Board approved the following project as a candidate to be amended to the NOACA Transportation Plan by adopting Resolution No. 2004-057 and as a proposed amendment to the TIP by adopting Resolution 2004-058 on December 10, 2004.

Title: Lighthouse Shuttle & Water Taxi
Sponsor:  Lorain Port Authority
Estimated Total Cost: $250,000
Proposed Source of Federal Funds: FY 2004 Appropriations Capital Investment Grants (Public Law 108-199)

History/Background:  The Lorain Harbor Lighthouse was built in 1917. The lighthouse, which has undergone extensive renovations over the past fourteen years, is located approximately one mile offshore and only accessible via water. During 2003 an estimated 300,000 visitors attended the events at Black River landing according to the sponsor.

Current Conditions: The Lorain Harbor Lighthouse is only accessible via water. According to the sponsor, the proposed project is consistent with the overall redevelopment plans for the Black River Corridor, including the Lorain Port Authority’s $6.95 million multi-modal transportation center at Black River Landing, the redevelopment of the former 58 acre Amship site with over 400 upscale housing units (Harborwalk), the renovation of Riverside Marina B by Port of Lorain Foundation as a lighthouse museum and the proposed redevelopment of the former LTV Steel iron ore transshipment facility (Lorain Pellet Terminal) by the City of Lorain.

Proposed Project: The project involves the acquisition of two (2) shuttle vessels to provide public access to the Lorain Harbor lighthouse. The project will provide waterborne access to the public to various special events at Black River Landing including festivals, thus reducing congestion and parking. The sponsor expects the project will enhance visitation and tourism to the city and waterfront area. The total cost is estimated to be $250,000. Eighty percent (80%) of the project cost ($200,000) will be funded with a fiscal year 2004 appropriation signed into public law 108-199. The Lorain Port Authority will be providing the twenty percent (20%) non-federal match. The sponsor expects to purchase by July 2005 (SFY 2006).

Staff Comment (Summary):

• This project will serve Environmental Justice (E.J.) populations
• Move for committee and public review in order to obtain comments.