Houghton City Council met on Dec. 1 to discuss civic developments.
The Lakeshore Center is undergoing repairs to its foundations, after a section of its dock collapsed into Portage Canal in August. In addition to repairs, the current ramp structure to the north is planned to be remodeled as a park space to match the new pier’s setting.
Parking continues to be heavily discussed, as City Manager Eric Waara brought up the current state. According to Waara, “Parking [in Houghton] is in flux.” It hasn’t been certain how the city is dealing with an increased demand for parking, especially for student tenants in town. Waara stated the issue is in current discussion within the municipality, including how to proceed with the large parking ramp along the lakeshore.
Meanwhile, Michigan Municipal magazine praised the city’s pier project taking place between the Lakeshore Center and the Portage Library. Additionally, Lake Superior Magazine remarked on Houghton’s strong winter.
Finally, the City of Houghton Beautification Committee helped decorate the city for the holidays. This includes a giant, red bulb ornament in Bridgeview Park.