History

Seaport Operations
In 1955, the State of Ohio enacted the Port Authority Act in order to take advantage of the newly created St. Lawrence Seaway system which allowed access to the Great Lakes from the Atlantic Ocean. Within days of its passage, civic leaders in Toledo created the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. Founded on July 18, 1955, it was the first port authority in Ohio. Today there are more than 20.

Airport Operations
The City of Toledo leased Toledo Express Airport and Metcalf Field to the Port Authority in 1973. At that point the Port Authority assumed responsibility for day to day operations of both facilities. Since that time, the Port Authority has simultaneously expanded both facilities and added major cargo operations at Toledo Express Airport.

Business Operations
In 1988, the Port Authority entered the business finance arena. The Port Authority, via its four business finance programs, plays a vital role in driving more than $1 billion dollars in business expansion. In addition, The Port’s business financing efforts have helped to create or retain more than 10,000 jobs.

Surface Transportation
The Port Authority acquired Central Union Terminal from Conrail in 1994. One of the last union stations constructed in the United States, the station had fallen into disrepair. The Port Authority undertook a $3.1 million renovation and Central Union Plaza was rededicated in 1996. The station’s name was changed to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza in 2001.

Brownfield Redevelopment
The Port Authority created the Property Management & Development division in response to the growing problem of polluted, former industrial sites throughout the region. In addition to the crucial work of brownfield redevelopment, this division also oversees the acquisition, sale, and lease of Port Authority property.