American Lakers Invest $126 Million in the Great Lakes States

By GLSR Staff  |  Lakers & Salties, Latest News

U.S. shipping companies operating exclusively on the Great Lakes transitioned from sailing to the annual process of repairing, maintaining and modernizing their fleet of lakers.  Vessels ranging in length from over 1,000-feet to smaller tug and barge combinations have taken to docks and ship repair facilities around the Great Lakes region.

This year alone U.S. Great Lakes shipping companies will invest over $126 million in their vessels at shipyards and facilities across the Great Lakes.  That includes over $48 million in Wisconsin, $43.5 million in Ohio, $9 million in Michigan, and $26 million spread across Minnesota, Illinois, New York and Pennsylvania.  The work includes replacing steel plating, engine overhauls, navigation equipment updates and painting.  Some vessels will be completely pulled from the water in a dry dock to be inspected, cleaned, and repainted.

The work is critical to maintaining a fleet of freshwater ships that will return to the Great Lakes waterways in March.

TAGS: , ,

The Comeback of American Shipyards

On April 9, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order designed to revitalize the United States maritime industry. With the Maritime Action Plan (MAP) at its core, this initiative... Read More

M/V Cuyahoga to be Dismantled after Being Damage in 2024 Fire

The M/V Cuyahoga is being dismantled after the vessel was irreparably damaged in a fire last year. The classic World War II-era laker made her final voyage across Lake Erie... Read More