Two big projects were approved by the Portage Redevelopment Commission, but not without a fight.
The commission on Thursday approved $160,000 for design and engineering work to enclose the open-air pavilion near U.S. Steel and $300,000 to secure a matching grant for the new fishing pier and fish cleaning station at the city’s marina.
City Council Vice President Scott Williams, D-3rd, asked for the $160,000 for the study at the open-air pavilion. “This needs to be done regardless of who occupies that building,” he said.
Williams said he plans to ask the Park Board to assist with funding the renovations at the building but wants the study done so he can provide more accurate estimates to the board. “We’ve got to share something concrete with the Park Board,” he said.
His interest in the building is potential future use of a portion of it for Craftsman Community Maker Labs of…
