The year 2020 could be a banner year for construction and development in Two Rivers.
City Manager Greg Buckley tells Seehafer News that the anticipated completion date for a 5,000 square foot expansion of the Nature Center at Woodland Dunes is April 21st.
He says of the project, “it’s another indication of the strength of nature-based tourism”, adding it’ll provide a small conference center for community groups and educational purposes. Buckley also praised the partnership between Woodland Dunes and the city.
The new Cobblestone Hotel overlooking the harbor and in the heart of downtown is on pace to open in late June or early July. Drywall is being put up and the exterior stone finish is being applied for the 55-room, $6.3 million hotel.
The developer for a new Culver’s Restaurant at 22nd and Washington has hit the pause button, according to Buckley, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but, the 8-properties involved in the $3.4-million plan have all been rezoned business, the development agreement has been approved by the City Council & final architectural plans are going before the City Plan Commission next Monday night. They’re hoping to see construction activity by mid-summer.
Construction is underway for an expansion at Riverside Foods, a longtime Two Rivers company that has a strong presence in frozen appetizers. Along with expanding the current building, the affiliate of Lakeside Foods, is adding new machinery & equipment and expects to complement the existing workforce of 100, with 30 new jobs. The entire $6.9-million project is expected to conclude by the end of this year.
In other developments in Two Rivers, Buckley said the city is currently in dialogue with two prospects for the former Paragon Electric building and he’s optimistic there will be some movement on the property, which overlooks Lake Michigan. The plant sat idle for 21 years and recently, a group called Paragon Partners foreclosed on the massive building.
He says those investors did not take good care of the structure, adding that while half of the building is in pristine condition. the remaining portion needs renovation or demolition.
The city still has a one and a half million dollar investment in the old Paragon location.
