The Lake Center District runs along Portage Road between Osterhout and East Centre Avenue. With the existing conditions on Portage Road come inherent difficulties with traffic movements and pedestrian safety. A sound plan for a future Lake Center District that benefits the affected property owners and businesses is necessary. The City of Portage is prepared to invest in the area to help stimulate the creation of an attractive and viable Lake Center District that functions on all levels – creating stability and encouraging investment while protecting the quality of life for Portage residents.
The City of Portage will utilize planning consultants who specialize in urban, mixed-use, pedestrian-friendly developments to help reimagine the Lake Center District as a destination corridor. However, before developing any plans, the Portage City Council and City Administration are seeking input from the businesses and residents in the area.
Workshops to discuss the future of the Lake Center District were held on February 10 with businesses and residents. More than 40 individuals representing the business community attended the afternoon session and approximately 175 residents attended the evening session. Those who attended had the opportunity to talk with city staff and elected officials, as well as the planning consultants. While no decisions were made at this meeting, the dialogue will assist the city and planners with some initial “likes” and “dislikes.” Those who were unable to attend can provide input by following this link: http://www.portagemi.gov/721/Lake-Center-District.
Additional workshops will be scheduled in the coming months to refine the ideas presented by Portage residents and business owners. If you have questions about the Lake Center District Workshops, please call the Office of the City Manager at 329-4405.