Lake Center District Commercial Corridor Rezoning Study

Lake Center District Rezoning


Ordinance Amendments
Rezoning Map 24/25-03

In January 2024, the city kicked off a proposed rezoning process of the Lake Center District Commercial Corridor with an initial public meeting. The rezoning aims to promote commercial reinvestment, diversify uses and building types, and enhance connectivity with the public space. This will shape the area’s character and promote new investment.  After a yearlong series of public meetings, stakeholders committee meetings and public hearings the City Council approved new zoning for the entire commercial district in January 2025.

Lake Center District Corridor Stakeholder Committee Members

Elected Official
Jim Pearson, Mayor Pro Tempore		Commercial Real Estate Owner/Developer Representative
Terry Patterson, Treystar		Business Owner
Lauren Bodamer, 468 Wine
Bank Representative
Roy Dangel, Arbor Credit Union		Business Owner
Jake Lohse, Presidential Brewing		Metro Transit
Sean McBride, Executive Director
Portage Public Schools
Alexandra McCullough, Principal		Resident
Lori Knapp		Resident
Trent Pierre


Lake Center District Corridor & Placemaking Study Background

In early 2020, the city enlisted Farr Associates, a planning firm that specializes in urban, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly developments, to help reimagine the Lake Center District as an attractive, multimodal corridor. The city assembled a Steering Committee comprised of area business owners, developers, and residents to help guide the city and consultant through the planning process. Throughout 2020 and 2021, the city hosted several public meetings, a three-day charrette, and an open house to gather public input from residents and business owners in the district.  

On Tuesday, July 13, 2021, the Portage City Council unanimously accepted the Lake Center District Corridor and Placemaking Study and approved Portage Road Scenario #3, found on page 64 of the study.