With a spotlight on the $250 million SoLa mixed-use development project, the EDCMC’s Power Breakfast showcased the city’s economic development momentum as well as generated funds for students’ transportation to trade shows.
Scott Goodman, founding principal of Farpoint Development/Decennial Group, highlighted the South of the Lake development as the event’s guest speaker. The project, to be located at the former You Are Beautiful site, is set to be an initial concept for uniting housing, hotels and amenities for both seasonal and community members.
“Every time I drive into Michigan City, I see the character and creativity – it is a great place to have families come and play,” Goodman said. “SoLa has advantages for both residents, guests and the community at large, including an amenity deck with pool, hot tub, landscaping and retractable roof. With 36,000 square feet of outdoor space, we are taking advantage of the views and it will be a pleasant place to spend time outside.
“Two different Wyndham hotels are part of this project. The SoLa Hotel has all-suite rooms and TRYP by Wyndham has bunk-bed rooms that are focused on families.”
Clarence Hulse, executive director of the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, said the project is a beacon for combining tourism and quality of life for Michigan City residents.
“This project will include 160 condos, 18 townhomes and penthouse units as well as amenities, retail and restaurant offerings that will be open to the community,” he said. “Our city is poised to be the place for seasonal and year-round residents as well as visitors as we continue to bring in projects that are rooted in innovative ideas and ignited by true visionaries.”
Nick Pollock, of premier event sponsor Indiana/Kentucky/Ohio Regional Council of Carpenters, said the union revolves around aiding with economic development of Michigan City and the region.
“We have worked on a number of large commercial projects right here,” he said. “As a Michigan City resident, I see how the lake, zoo, shopping, retail, great restaurants and eateries and the lakefront have us positioned to be one of the greatest places to live in the U.S.”
“Our team has always looked to invest in neighborhoods that are up and coming, where we see a real path for growth and nothing says that like Michigan City – you can just feel it,” Goodman said. “We have discovered all of the vision and economic development being done here and we are investing in it.”
The breakfast also spotlighted the community’s giving spirit as event sponsors showed up to support the transportation of high school students to trade shows in Chicago.
“Today’s event raised more than $7,000 that will go toward exposing our Michigan City high school students to a range of career opportunities,” Hulse said. “We are extremely grateful for the support of our youth who are exploring what to do next after high school.”