The future of the Bayfront looks a little brighter as the Erie Western Pennsylvania Port Authority and the Erie County Redevelopment Authority are moving forward in obtaining control of the former Erie Coke property at the foot of East Avenue. “We’re lucky to have such a partner like the redevelopment authority and experts in what they do and especially from the clean up, remediation side of things. Right now for us, it’s a great day to have a unanimous vote — our 11 board members in support of condemnation of the Erie Coke property,” said Julie Slomski, deputy executive director of the Erie-Western Pennsylvania Port Authority. “It’s really important to have local control, that was that motivating factor all the way through here,” said Tina Mengine, CEO of the Erie County Redevelopment Authority (ECRDA). Sister Pat Lupo, a leader from Hold Erie Coke Accountable, said she feels confident that public input will continue to play a role in the future of the site.
