On August 15, 2024, the Portage Planning Commission adopted the Portage Forward Together 2045 Master Plan. For two years, the city worked to assess existing conditions, host public meetings, and gather input from businesses, developers, and the community, resulting in more than 800 engagement points. The new Master Plan, presented in an interactive online format and a printable PDF document that meets state requirements, replaces the 2014 Comprehensive Plan.
The updated plan addresses the city’s current and future needs, focusing on quality of life, land use, economic development, and sustainability. Key community feedback was incorporated, balancing housing demand with natural area preservation and promoting energy sustainability. The plan also details the future of three subareas: the Crossroads Mall Area, the City Centre, and the Lake Center District, emphasizing mixed-use development to enhance housing and business opportunities. The Portage Forward Together 2045 Master Plan includes 12 sections, and each major section culminates in an implementation list in the Implementation section to guide the city’s future actions.
With the new Master Plan in place, the city will prioritize actions to align with its vision, including updating zoning codes and development standards to support more housing opportunities and continuing to involve the community throughout the process.
Questions about the Master Plan can be directed to the Department of Community Development at (269) 329-4477.