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$22M Port Development On Detroit River Doesn't Draw Cruise Ships As Planned

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - A $22 million port development along downtown Detroit's riverfront that aimed to be a stopping point for Great Lakes cruise ships hasn't worked out as planned.

Four years after construction of the Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority public dock, the facilities are used almost exclusively by a catering company for weddings and other events. Parties also are offered on a yacht.

According to a report in the Detroit News, only one cruise ship has docked this year at the 21,000-square-foot building near the Renaissance Center -- the same number as in 2014. The Detroit-Wayne County Port Authority building, meanwhile, is used by Troy-based Continental Services for events.

John Loftus, the port authority's executive director, says the facility attracts visitors and creates jobs. There's hope, however, for future cruise business.

TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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