Sandusky dedicates Jackson Street Pier

SANDUSKY — Re-debuting more than three weeks ago, Sandusky dignitaries on Wednesday officially opened up the new-look Jackson Street Pier. Sandusky ex officio mayor Dick Brady labeled the waterfront community gathering spot as a "transformative project." "This is one of those projects that is certainly going to stand out in the history of Sandusky," Brady said just before he and others cut a ceremonial blue ribbon beneath the pier's welcoming sign. "We took something, I believe, and made it better for future generations," Brady said. Breaking ground in December 2018, the $8.1 million project called for overhauling this public space while still maintaining its familiar uses, such as for fishing, boating and relaxation purposes. Some new features include better handicap accessibility for both commuters and pedestrians, who can more easily enter a boardwalk area. The boardwalk now spans across Jackson Street Pier's entire perimeter. In its past configuration, it unexpectedly ended at the northwest corner. Some new features — like the sun stairs, trellis swing benches, great lawn and other seating areas — provide several different places, each offering a unique vantage point, to eat, converse with others or de-stress. Project contractor Donely's also improved the waiting areas where Goodtime I and Pelee Islander passengers stand before or after boarding a ferry. They also built a new pavilion, or multipurpose building, where people can host events. In his speech, Brady talked about compromise and how "not everybody got exactly what they wanted." One such example: Some people wanted to preserve every parking space, about 240 in total. Others preferred to completely eliminate any vehicle traffic whatsoever. The new tally stands at about 100 parking spaces, including at the pier's edge, where people can now drive and park, among other activities, such as watch freighters crisscross Sandusky Bay. "Everyone gave up a little bit, and what you end up with is a true compromise that, I think, benefits our entire city," Brady said. Because of COVID-19, officials hosted a small ceremony, inviting a select few people to attend. They do, however, want to put on a larger event in the near future to truly christen Jackson Street Pier's facelift. And despite unveiling this space for pedestrians on May 22, prior to Memorial Day, officials still wanted to host a ceremony to share their thoughts about this entire process. "I hope that generations to come will enjoy what we are going to start enjoying today," Brady said.