The map illustrates the area which will be only accessible to marina slip holders after dusk. (Submitted)
Lorain Port and Finance Authority officials have announced new restricted hours at the city’s popular Mile Long Pier.
“The late-night activity has escalated to the point that it is no longer safe for our guests, so we are making changes to limit vehicle access to our most problematic areas,” according to Tom Brown, executive director of the Lorain Port and Finance Authority in a news release.
“Large gatherings of cars have continued to congregate which has led to many illegal activities which cannot be tolerated at our site,” the release stated.
The “very hard decision” to restrict parking at the north parking lot was made after meetings and site tours with the Port, Oasis Marinas at Port Lorain and the Lorain Police Department, the release stated.
“Every fisherman, every photographer, every boat owner, every dog walker, every person going to tour the lighthouse, and every person who enjoys the pier and its sights are our guests, and we take their health and safety very seriously,” according to the release.
This lot will be closed at dusk each evening, the release stated.
The parking restrictions will be just one part of the new plan to curtail inappropriate activity at the pier.
An “extensive camera monitoring system that has been created in conjunction with the Lorain Police Department” also will be added to the area as a deterrent to crime, the release stated.
“We value and appreciate all our law-abiding guests and many of you share some deep connection with the pier and its many memories,” according to the release. “We just need to do our best to eliminate the nonsense that has become dangerous to each of you.
“This is not in any way closing the pier to the fishing community or to anyone else. You can park in the south lot and walk out to where you would like to fish or view the lake. Many parks are closed completely after dark, but we are in no way trying to do that currently.
“We ask for some patience as we continue to evaluate this issue with our partners at Oasis Marinas at Port Lorain and the Lorain Police Department but remain committed to continued public access to our Great Lake.”
