Minimills will be built and steel coils will be shipped out of the Port to lower lake manufacturing markets. Recreational development will dominate much of the existing commercial Port. It's really difficult to predict what the Port might look like in a hundred years. Technology is moving so quickly that most of us outside the scientific community can't begin to guess what the future will bring. The Seaway locks will probably be limited to 800 feet with 36-foot drafts for grain traffic.
Many people prefer to stick with the system they know.
Docks also will be completely automated. Cargo handling methods will be revolutionized by technology that hasn't even begun emerging today, but it's safe to say that dozens of small, specialized docks will disappear in favor of two or three very large bulk facilities. Most of the waterfront will be devoted to public green spaces and multiple-residence dwellings. By the year 2100, our harbor will be a busy place with large and small vessels year-round. Cargo will consist of all types of freight, from traditional bulk products to package freight and all products in between.