6 Perspectives on "Cleveland's Waterfront is Open For Business"

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Wednesday’s “Cleveland’s Waterfront is Open for Business - Have Fun and Be Safe” press conference and mixer at Collision Bend Brewing Co. was a wonderful opportunity for maritime, law enforcement, recreation, and business stakeholders to share their respective thoughts on the positive impact Cleveland’s waterfront has on the regional economy. There are also challenges associated with commercial maritime operators sharing the same narrow body of water (a Federal Navigation Channel) with recreational paddlers and boaters who are being drawn to the comeback Cuyahoga River in increasing numbers.

Below are comments from six of the eight presenters - wouldn’t you know a technical glitch torpedoed our first two videos of major maritime stakeholders (U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Cleveland and Lake Carriers’ Association) who helped us quickly scale the press conference from an idea to what will now be an annual event convened by Share the River.

Want to get out on the water? Check out our recreation page.

Hungry or want a waterside refreshment after your fun on the water? Check out out our food and drink page.

Michael Deemer, interim President & CEO, Downtown Cleveland Alliance, shares some thoughts on how a resurgent Cuyahoga River is essential to the economic health of downtown Cleveland.

Tony Brancatelli, Cleveland City Councilman (Ward 12) and Chair of the Development, Planning & Sustainability Committee shares a few thoughts on the importance of the Cuyahoga River from a development, recreation and housing perspective.

Rachel Nagel, Outdoor Recreation Manager for Cleveland Metroparks, shares the joys of paddling responsibly on Greater Cleveland's waterways.

Capt. Drew Ferguson, President and CEO of PHASTAR. on promoting the efficient and safe coexistence of commercial and recreations vessels on the Cuyahoga River and inner harbor.

Andrea Irland, an outdoor recreation planner with the National Park Service's Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance, speaks on the establishment of the state designated Cuyahoga River Water Trail and the diverse experiences it offers.

Jared Magyar, Director, Facilities & Operations for the Port of Cleveland, shares a few thoughts on their commitment to enhancing waterfront infrastructure, safety and sustainability.

Many thanks to WEWS, WCPN, WOIO, Fox 8, and Spectrum, OH for helping share the message that Cleveland’s waterfront is open for business and for reminding their viewers/readers/listeners what steps they can take to enjoy a fun and safe time on the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie and other bodies of water in northeast Ohio. Before you head out on the water, be sure to check out our “Know Before You Go on the Cuyahoga River” FAQ page.