VERMILION, OHIO — A major infrastructure milestone was celebrated in Vermilion this week as officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the City of Vermilion, and Erie MetroParks gathered to mark the completion of repairs to the Vermilion Harbor West Pier and the official launch of construction on the East Pier.
According to a June 2025 press release from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District, the combined projects represent a $23 million federal investment aimed at strengthening coastal infrastructure, supporting Great Lakes navigation, and protecting the community’s economy and shoreline.
“Once all repairs are complete, Vermilion’s piers are sure to protect boaters, people, and the local economy for decades to come,” said Lt. Col. Robert Burnham, commander of the Army Corps’ Buffalo District. “This is the result of dedicated coordination and expertise.”
Protecting a Lake Erie Landmark
Vermilion Harbor has served the region since 1836, when it was first developed for commercial use. Today, it’s a recreational hub with boating traffic generating nearly $7 million annually in local spending and supporting more than 44 full-time jobs.
“The friends and families that visit us on those watercraft help fuel our economy,” said Vermilion Mayor Jim Forthofer. “My sincere thanks to Congresswoman Kaptur and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for helping keep our waterways safe and attractive for everyone.”
The West Pier repairs, totaling 1,100 feet, began in 2021 and were completed in June 2025. Recent work included installation of new steel sheet pile, filling voids behind the wall, grading, hydroseeding, and planting trees in the adjacent Wakefield MetroPark.
Final Phase Underway on East Pier
Repairs to 600 feet of the East Pier will begin July 7 and are expected to conclude by January 2026. The $6.5 million contract was awarded to Great Lakes Dock and Materials, L.L.C., based in Michigan. Crews will remove and reuse stone, install new structural reinforcements, and restore the site to its original condition.
An earlier 200-foot section of the East Pier was rebuilt in 2021 with over 2,000 tons of stone and concrete.
The projects are fully funded by the federal government through the Corps’ operations and maintenance budget.
A Shared Commitment
Erie MetroParks Executive Director Melissa Price praised the long-standing partnerships that made the project possible.
“After years of planning and partnering with Mayor Forthofer, Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and the Vermilion community, Erie MetroParks is excited to complete construction at Wakefield MetroPark this year,” said Price.
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, who helped secure federal funding, emphasized the broader significance.
“This project enhances safety for inter-lake and international trade while also protecting our precious Lake Erie,” said Kaptur. “A thriving Lake Erie is essential for the prosperity of northern Ohio and the entire Great Lakes Region.”
U.S. Senator Jon Husted added his support, stating, “Strengthening this infrastructure will allow for continued economic growth in the region and create a safe community for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
Explore More
Photos and video from the project site and ceremony are available at:
👉 View the album on Flickr
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