With a focus on housing, the EDCMC’s Power Breakfast highlighted the city’s mixed-use projects and new neighborhood as well as sparked future trade careers with financial support for trade show attendance.
More than 160 attendees listened to panelists David Flaherty, CEO of Flaherty & Collins, Brian Farkas, director of Allen Edwin Homes, and Jeff Bennett, partner at McColly Bennett during the event at UpTown Social.
The trio spotlighted the latest updates on The Franklin at 11th Street, which is part of the South Shores’ Double Track renovations, and the Woodland Ridge subdivision, which is the first new major neighborhood in 50 years.
Allen Edwin Homes is spearheading the new subdivision, which is in its first phase with plans for 33 homes that are part of a 32-acre new home community development. The subdivision includes 1,250- to 2,400-square-foot houses that will range from $270,000 to mid-$300,000. There will be a mix of designs for homeowners to choose from with options for 3 to 5 bedrooms and 2 to 3 bathrooms. Plans include 113 homes as the project progresses through various phases at 900 West along Woodland Avenue and near Pahs Road.
Flaherty & Collins is developing the South Shore train station and mixed-use development at 11th street. The state’s only mixed-use high rise TOD development, which encompasses the train station, apartments, parking, and retail and commercial space, recently celebrated its official groundbreaking.
“Our tower will have 220 apartments, 5600 square feet of retail and commercial space on the first floor and 549 parking spaces to service commuters, riders, visitors and residents,” David Flaherty, CEO of Flaherty & Collins, said during the groundbreaking. “This will have a great economic impact and pave the way for future development in West Lake and along the South Shore. Success breeds success and as we’re successful here, it will help put more into Michigan City.”
“This monumental project has united public and private entities and organizations to herald a new era in MC,” said Economic Development Corporation Michigan City’s Executive Director Clarence Hulse. “Having new housing in the price range of Woodland Ridge will add another level to our housing offerings here in the city.”
Hulse said it is always inspiring to hear how the city is viewed as a solid investment for those who are leading development and growth.
“The panelists showcased how our location, lakefront, burgeoning opportunities and of course, our community members, help us stand out as the place to invest in and put down roots,” he said.
Every year, the proceeds from the breakfast support the transportation of high school students to trade shows in Chicago.
“Today’s event raised around $10,000 – more than last year – so that our Michigan City high school students are exposed to a first-hand look at future career opportunities in the trade arena,” Hulse said. “We are honored to help back this important step in workforce and student development.”