In a bold move to catalyze industrial growth across Northeast Ohio, Lorain County has secured $67.4 million from Ohio’s All Ohio Future Fund to build a 1,000-acre advanced manufacturing megasite near the Lorain County Regional Airport in New Russia Township.
The investment represents a significant step toward establishing the region as a top destination for large-scale manufacturers.
The megasite will address long-standing infrastructure challenges, such as water and sewer access, while taking advantage of its strategic location, proximity to utilities and transportation corridors, and access to a highly skilled workforce. Though not intended for data centers, the site is ideal for precision-driven industries like aerospace and automotive manufacturing.
“This site offers a rare combination of scale, infrastructure, and location,” stated Christine Nelson, Team NEO’s Vice President of Site Strategies. “Its vibration-free environment—despite being adjacent to an airport—makes it uniquely attractive for high-precision operations.”
Terry Coyne of Newmark Real Estate echoed the sentiment, pointing out that the site’s size and scarcity among comparable industrial properties make it likely to attract one or two major users.
Local and state leaders are rallying behind the project, citing its potential to drive long-term economic growth in the region.
“This is a generational opportunity for Lorain County,” said County Administrator Jeff Armbruster. “We’re building the infrastructure today to support the industries of tomorrow.”
“The megasite will benefit not just Lorain County, but the entire Northeast Ohio corridor,” said State Representative Gayle Manning.
Plans are underway to expand the airport’s runway to 6,500 or 7,000 feet, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft and potentially relieve traffic at Cleveland Hopkins and Burke Lakefront airports. The infrastructure buildout, which includes water and sewer lines, is expected to take three to five years.
The initiative has received strong support from JobsOhio, Team NEO, and the Lorain County Board of Commissioners, and marketing efforts are already underway to attract high-impact industrial tenants.
