Manning Secures Funding for Lorain Mega Site Project
COLUMBUS - State Senator Nathan Manning (R-North Ridgeville) and State Representative Gayle Manning (R-Avon) announced the Ohio Controlling Board approved the distribution of $67,412,580 from the All Ohio Future Fund for the development of a large-scale industrial "Mega Site" in Lorain County.
A lack of sewer infrastructure and adequate water needed to attract business has been a major obstacle in the area. To help address some of these issues, the project will offer a 1,000-acre site dedicated to manufacturing and industrial growth. The Mega Site property is centered around the Lorain County Regional Airport, which could offload some of the load from Cleveland Hopkins and Burke Lakefront. The project will include a runway expansion to 6500 ft.
"We are very excited about the economic impact this project will have, not only in Lorain County but the entire region," said Senator Manning. "The opportunities available in the 13th Senate District will be immense and this is only the first step in that process. I look forward to seeing the project's completion and how it will benefit Lorain County."
Critical stakeholders have been supportive of this initiative including Lorain County Rural Wastewater District (LORCO), Lorain County Sanitary Engineer, the City of Vermillion, and the City of Avon Lake. Additionally, JobsOhio and Team NEO have contributed greatly to this collaboration. With all the stakeholders coming together on this project, the county-wide strategic plan includes five pillars:
- Innovative Industry and Economic Development
- Transportation
- Workforce Development and Education
- Housing
- Natural Resources
“It was great working with Commissioners Moore, Riddell, and Gallagher on this collaborative effort with the Department of Development,” said Representative Manning. “Along with the commissioners, Lorain County Administrator Jeff Armbruster and his team have been working on this project to get it shovel ready for years, and we are excited to continue working with them.”
The All Ohio Future Fund, which will help fund the project, was established in the 2024-25 state operating budget, supported by both Representative and Senator Manning. The fund represented a $750 million investment to support local communities with site-readiness and preparation to attract economic development projects. The funds are administered through the Ohio Department of Development.
“We are grateful to the Mannings for their critical support and advocacy, which helped this project to continue moving forward,” said Administrator Armbruster. “We look forward to the next phase of this project and seeing the great benefit it will bring to the area once completed.”
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