TOLEDO, Ohio -
Another potential facelift along the Maumee River could attract tourists, but is it worth a commitment from the city? A plan to commit money to a maritime museum is raising some eyebrows.
That museum could lure tens of thousands of visitors, but Toledo may have to commit some money to launch the project.
A marina building is not drawing crowds. As a matter of fact, the city is giving away the boating slips for free. So, relocating a maritime museum from Vermillion, Ohio to the mouth of the Maumee could be a good move.
Paul Lamar with the Port Authority is steering the project that would bring exhibits, create a public park, and attract some crowds.
"It will bring in tax revenue to the city," Lamar says. "Ultimately, the goal is to preserve maritime history. There's no more fitting port to do that than Toledo, where we see ourselves as the capital of the Great Lakes."
"To create the museum will cost about $8.5 million. More than $6 million is coming from the Ohio cultural facilities commission, but it won't release that money unless all 8.5 million for the project is raised."
Right now the project is short $850,000, and Toledo is considering advancing the money for the project.
But is there a danger Toledo could lose its investment?
At a council hearing Monday, members were told there is little risk.
The Great Lakes Historical Society says it's going to come up with the $850,000, and Toledo's money won't even be needed.
"We are in full fundraising mode, and, when we raise that money, we'll use if without ever having to draw upon it," says Chris Gilchrist.
That was good news to council, which sees potentially 40,000 visitors to a spot that right now isn't raising a dime.
The Great Lakes Historical Society is collecting donations. The group also has property to sell and could be forced to take out a loan to cover Toledo's investment. The city would be leasing the property and collecting tax revenue.
Council votes on the plan Tuesday.
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