Shenango Valley News

The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced a grant of $11,250,000 for the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority's project to replace the Parade Street slip dock wall in Erie. This funding comes after support from U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA), who had written a letter backing the initiative in May.

Rep. Kelly emphasized the importance of maintaining infrastructure along Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay, noting their role as significant economic drivers for the region. "These are precious natural resources that also serve as a major economic driver for the Erie region," he stated. "This funding will provide a major return on investment for the Port Authority and for local businesses for years to come."

The project involves reconstructing approximately 1,250 linear feet of the east dock wall at Parade Street slip and widening it. The scope includes final design, surveys, geotechnical work, environmental reviews, and permitting.

Rep. Kelly is part of the House Great Lakes Task Force.

The existing Parade Street Slip is central to operations between Donjon Shipbuilding and Repair's dry dock facility to the west and Carmeuse Lime & Stone's industrial pier area to the east. Originally built when Great Lakes vessels were narrower than today's ships, its limited width restricts simultaneous docking along both dock walls, affecting business opportunities for Donjon and Carmeuse.