Manning Announces Grant Awarded to Lorain County to Support Local Paddle Sports

COLUMBUS—State Senator Nathan Manning (R-North Ridgeville) today announced that the Lorain County Port Authority has received $32,175 through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Paddling Enhancement Grants. The funds will support an ADA-compliant kayak launch at the mouth of the Black River. "I am pleased to see these funds awarded to Lorain County that will help create more opportunity and access for those who enjoy paddle sports and other outdoor activities this summer," said Manning. ODNR distributed more than $588,000 in Paddling Enhancement Grants to nine political subdivisions this year, including Lorain County. Grant awards to local governments range from $32,000 to $75,000. The grant is capped at $75,000 per project. Projects include building boat ramps, mooring stations, and ADA-compliant kayak and canoe launches, as well as installing watercraft storage racks and lighting, among other improvements.

The grants are funded by Ohio’s recreational boaters through the Waterways Safety Fund, which is comprised of a share of the state motor fuel tax, watercraft registration and titling fees, and funding from the U.S. Coast Guard. Additional information is available online at ohiodnr.gov.