A Vision for the Future
November 1, 2023
Press Releases
The City of Cleveland Department of Port Control welcomed Bryant L. Francis, C.M., as the new director in late May 2023. In this role, Bryant serves as the leader for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), Burke Lakefront Airport (BKL) and Harbors.
Francis has over 25 –years of experience in the aviation industry, which includes seven years as the Director of Aviation for the Port of Oakland in California most recently, along with previous director roles at Long Beach Airport in California and the Shreveport Airport Authority in Louisiana. He is also active in numerous aviation-related professional groups, including the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), Airports Council International – North America, and the Airport Minority Advisory Council.
Francis views his role at DPC as an incredible opportunity, given the significance of the economic contributions to the region.
“Hopkins International (CLE) is the busiest passenger airport in the State of Ohio,” Francis said. “It is the primary commercial airport in Northeast Ohio, which was key in my interest. I also see the growing role we can – and will – play in the future of this region from an economic development perspective.”
Francis came to Cleveland knowing the challenges CLE faces. He acknowledges CLE is operating with an existing terminal that is aging – and these shortcomings result in the inability to provide the type of experience the airport wants to provide for both its travelers and for those who work at CLE.
He also knows “it will take many years to achieve the full vision” as he leads DPC into the Terminal Modernization Development Program (TMPD), slated to fully launch for CLE’s 100th anniversary in 2025. This transformation is one that Francis is preparing for and eager to begin.
“The intricacy of executing this program is something which I look forward to leading and actively participating in,” said Francis.
Francis said CLE will continue to operate out of the current facility, while renovating and/or replacing major portions of the existing terminal complex within the existing footprint.
The TMDP will take years to execute – most likely a decade or more. But Francis is optimistic.
“We will ultimately make very meaningful changes to the experience at Hopkins – the end result will be transformative,” Francis said. “Better days are coming – and I look forward to being a part of the renaissance that is occurring in the City of Cleveland. That’s an exciting prospect for me.”