2 weeks Ago By The Editorial Board
Lorain Port and Finance Authority Board of Directors voted to move forward with a $5 million bond issuance for the Black River Landing Amphitheater Project, which should prove to be a key component in the transformation of Lorain’s waterfront entertainment venue. The bond will be backed by Lorain County commissioners, who previously pledged support for the downtown Lorain project. The Board’s decision marks a significant milestone in the $10.
9 million redevelopment effort that will create a permanent performance venue at Black River Landing, Lorain County’s largest tourist destination which attracts over 150,000 visitors annually. The Black River Landing is the home of the Rockin’ on the River weekly summer concert series and many more events . Tiffany McClelland, executive director of the Lorain Port and Finance Authority, believes this project represents the Port’s commitment to enhancing public spaces and creating economic opportunities in Lorain.
With the Port Board’s approval and support from Lorain County Commissioners David Moore, Marty Gallagher and Jeff Riddell, officials will break ground this fall and deliver a world-class venue by spring 2026. McClelland acknowledges that the renovation project would not be possible without the support of the commissioners, so they deserve credit as well. The Lorain County Port Authority will loan the funds to the Lorain Port, which will repay it through revenue generated from its operations, including the recently acquired Rockin’ on the River.
The Port Board bought Rockin’ on the River from Bob and Sandy Earley. The stage project will be implemented in phases, with construction on Phase 1-A scheduled to begin in September. This initial phase includes building a permanent stage with canopy, amphitheater lawn and front-of-house facilities.
Phase 1-B, which includes the Black River Peel Building, green room, storage, sloped green roof and plaza loading area, is contingent upon securing an additional $1.785 million in philanthropic support by June. The bond issuance is part of a comprehensive funding strategy that includes: $5 million bond; $995,000 from the city of Lorain in American Rescue Plan Act funds; $995,000 from Lorain County in ARPA funds; $750,000 from the Lorain County Visitors Bureau; $650,000 in philanthropic commitments; $500,000 from the state of Ohio; and $250,000 from the Lorain Port and Finance Authority.
The current stage canopy was never intended to be permanent. Every year, before the outdoor entertainment season begins at Black River Landing, the Port has the canopy installed over the stage. At the end of the year, a crew disassembles the canopy.
The Port believes the current canopy is approaching the end of its useful life. Port officials are confident this investment ensures that Black River Landing will continue to serve as the cultural heart of the community for generations to come. The redesigned venue will feature improved sightlines of the stage, waterfront and downtown, and address operational challenges that have emerged as the venue’s popularity has grown.
The project aims to transform Black River Landing from a primarily weekend destination to a year-round public amenity. Brad Mullins, chairman of the Lorain Port and Finance Authority Board of Directors, believes this is an exciting time for Lorain and the investment will help revitalize not only Lorain, but Lorain County. And, Mullins probably is right.
A much improved stage could be a grand opportunity to bring in more acts that will entertain a diversified audience. This quality-of-life investment is essential and crucial to attracting visitors, businesses and potential new residents to Lorain County. This is a chance for the Lorain Port to showcase the amenities the International City has to offer, especially Lake Erie and the Black River.
When people come to visit, they can stay at the Ariel Broadway Hotel and dine in local restaurants both downtown and across the city and county. The Lorain Port and Finance Authority deserve credit for trying to stay true to its mission: to promote waterborne commerce, to provide economic development opportunities in the city of Lorain, and to enhance public access to Lake Erie and the Black River. Lorain Port and Finance Authority also has other facilities, including the Black River Wharf Boat Launch, Lakeside Landing, Mile-Long Pier and Riverside Park.
But, Black River Landing is the crown jewel of its facilities and is where Lorain Port offices are located. The amphitheater actually is one of the largest draws of outside residents to Lorain and Lorain County. The Lorain Port and Finance Authority made the right decision to go forward with this project because the new design will provide more opportunities for entertainment and recreation in downtown Lorain.
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