Historic pier critical to Vermilion, Ohio economy repaired > Buffalo District > Buffalo District News Stories

Repairs to the West Pier in Vermilion, Ohio are complete. They provide protection for beachgoers and boaters and ensure the economic viability of the city's port.

Why it matters: Vermilion piers protect the entrance to the Vermilion River, Main Street Beach, and surrounding homes from damage and erosion by Lake Erie.

• Boat trips and spending in the harbor generate an estimated $6.9 million in revenue for local tourism and the economy, including more than $200,000 from 13 charter fishing boats.

• The port provides more than 44 full-time jobs and has a total impact of $15 million on the regional economy.

• Vermilion Harbor is a “port of refuge,” providing shelter for boats exposed to difficult weather and water conditions.

How it happened: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed the repairs faster than originally planned to avoid disrupting the city's summer beach and tourism seasons.

• Rebuilding 900 feet of the 1,333-foot-long pier from Main Street Beach to the north end used about 4,700 tons of new stone – some the size of a household dishwasher – and gravel.

• The pier was rebuilt to its original height and a new layer of stone was added to the original design on the seaward side to increase protection for the shipping channel and beach.

• Check out photos of the project here.

What you should know: Storms, waves and ice caused the 183-year-old pier to collapse before repairs. They also pose a safety risk to the public.

• When boating in or around the harbor, monitor the weather, obey speed limits and safety rules on local waterways, and always wear a life jacket.

• Read more about the project here.