Work Session (Renovare Update June)

The Renovare team presents a Site Feasibility Analysis and Master Plan Update for the Gateway to Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore. The project’s original goal was to perform a feasibility analysis for new municipal offices and community space. However, the *revised goal* is to update the master plan by validating current goals, expanding on economic development needs, and creating three small area plans to support private investment. This will involve data gathering, community engagement through surveys and public meetings, conceptual design, site planning, and proposed redevelopment tools.

The scope of the project includes data gathering, regional partner interviews, a community survey, small area plans for the DPW/Field Trip site and two additional locations, work sessions for economic development priorities, and community engagement through two public open houses. The timeline spans from June to September, with feedback collection, conceptual planning, and validation of documents. The roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, involving a working committee, the Planning Commission/Council, the consultant (Renovare), and residents.

The core process involves working from site constraints, meeting with property owners, identifying conceptual building and site improvements, applying these in a cohesive concept plan, presenting concepts to the public, and revising based on feedback. The document provides examples from the City of Portage and West Branch, Michigan, demonstrating industrial development and redevelopment strategies with financial incentives.

In summary, this master plan update seeks to revitalize the Gateway to Sleeping Bear area by leveraging community input, implementing strategic planning, and fostering economic development. The process emphasizes collaboration between stakeholders, resulting in the creation of updated plans and redevelopment tools to guide future growth and investment.