City hopes to ‘induce’ south side developments

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Affordable multi-unit housing could come to a vacant property in the 3500 block of Electric Avenue in Port Huron. City Manager James Freed says Port Huron has it’s eyes set on the site of the former River District Supermarket which burned down in 2013. Speaking to WPHM following Friday’s State of the County address, Freed says he will be asking City Council to purchase the site tonight with the goal of prepping the site and then turning it over to a private developer, describing it as “inducing” economic growth.

“It’ has been the stated goal of the city to expand housing opportunities in the City of Port Huron,” said Freed. “We believe there is a lot of potential there for investment. We are very serious about economic growth and economic expansion of South Park.”

The former River District comes with a $550,000 price tag and would be purchased with American Rescue Plan funding. Other sites being eyed by the city for potential purchase and redevelopment include 1003 Erie Street and 2910 32nd Street.

Also on the agenda this evening is a recommendation for approval of a liquor license for a tasting room permit for Desmond Depot Brew House. If approved by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, would allow a micro brewery at the former Pere Marquette depot near Vantage Point.

Council tonight could also approve spending up to $75,000 dollars to reconstruct the east wall of the McMorran Memorial Room in order to provide access to the new McMorran Plaza. Council meets at 7pm tonight at the Municipal Office Center.