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An outdoor ice-skating rink?
A small concert venue?
Food trucks?
As Michigan City continues to engage in the beautification of its downtown, the city called upon its brightest young minds today for recommendations.
Dozens of Marquette students had their voices heard during an input session this morning held on campus. The panel, which was comprised of designers and civic leaders, sought ideas for activities and programs for the Downtown Plaza to be located at 7th and Franklin. Friday's forum included discussion, mapping, keypad polling, and drawing exercises.
"We're grateful to the city for visiting our campus to incorporate our young leaders in the future of Michigan City. Today presented a unique learning opportunity for our students while advancing the community in which they live, learn, and recreate," director of student government and social studies teacher Amanda Boyd said.
Hubert Morgan, principal and founder of Stanhope Consulting in Chicago, explained the role of urban planners to students. Morgan's work requires him to peer decades into the future. How can cities prepare for self-driving cars? Or hovercars? Is citywide fiber-optic internet access a five-year or ten-year reality? These are the questions he ponders - and researches.
Development projects, especially in the area surrounding Marquette Catholic High School, are beginning to catch the attention of many Michigan City residents and visitors. The South Shore Double Track project, the Elston Grove project, and aesthetic improvements to medians on Wabash Street represent tangible momentum points for this section of the city.
The potential of Michigan City's downtown and the area surrounding Marquette is moving into motion. Involving the next generation Friday proved to be beneficial for residents young and old.
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