LISBON, Ohio – The creation of the Ohio River Commission represents a “game changer” toward leveraging the Ohio River as an economic driver for the entire state, officials said Thursday.

“Until now, Ohio lacked a unified agency to champion the economic and strategic value of the Ohio River,” said Penny Traina, executive director of the Columbiana County Port Authority. “With the establishment of the Ohio River Commission, we can finally harness the full potential of this incredible resource to drive business development, expand terminal operations and boost tourism. This is a game changer for our region and for the entire state.”

The Ohio River Commission was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine earlier this month following the successful amendment of House Bill 469 into Senate Bill 54. With this legislation, Ohio joins neighboring states in prioritizing river-based economic opportunities.

The commission will be housed within the Ohio Department of Development and tasked with developing a strategy for economic development along the Ohio River. Its responsibilities will include advancing marine cargo operations, improving infrastructure and transportation networks and fostering collaborations with port authorities, local development districts and federal partners.

“The impact of Penny’s leadership on this initiative cannot be understated, and this commission will be a welcome addition to the region’s efforts to advance economic growth from Lake Erie to the Ohio River,” said Alexa Sweeney Blackann, interim CEO of Lake to River Economic Development.

The formation of the commission is the result of efforts by a dedicated coalition of stakeholders along the river, spanning from Columbiana County to Hamilton County.

Among these was a working group composed of Traina, Robert Naylor of Jefferson County, Mike Paprocki of Jefferson County, Bill Dingus of Lawrence County, Jesse Roush of Washington County, Taylor Abbott of Monroe County, Eric Thomas of Hamilton County and Randy Lane of the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Others such as state Reps. Monica Robb Blasdel, R-79th, and Don Jones, R-95th, along with state Sen. Shane Wilkin, R-17th, provided essential leadership in guiding the effort through the legislative process.

Pictured at top: The view of the Ohio River from the Broadway Wharf in East Liverpool.