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Gem City Shipbuilding has proposed transforming the former Erie Coke Plant site into a U.S. Navy shipyard, as presented to the Erie Western PA Port Authority. The estimated project cost ranges from $250 million to $750 million, with funding expected from both private and public sources.

The initiative aims to create jobs and boost community development in Erie, which has faced population decline. However, the site is heavily contaminated, with a cleanup process expected to take decades, according to Julie Slomski, Executive Director of the Port Authority.

U.S. Congressman Mike Kelly noted the feasibility of the project, emphasizing its potential economic benefits for the community if properly planned.