Town and Blank Construction acquires Marquette Mall property for redevelopment plans

The Michigan City Planning Commission meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on critical developments surrounding the Marquette Mall property, which recently changed ownership. The new owner, Town and Blank Construction, is looking to redevelop the site, and discussions centered on access agreements and utility management that will impact future development.

A key topic was the cross-access agreement between the mall and the newly acquired property. The developer emphasized the need for flexibility in access points, stating that the existing agreement allows for adjustments as the site is developed. This flexibility is crucial to ensure that both properties can maintain access without being restricted by fixed points, which could hinder future construction or redevelopment efforts.

The developer also addressed concerns about identifying utility lines on the property. While they are willing to map out utilities on their site, they argued that it should not be their responsibility to identify infrastructure belonging to the mall. This distinction is important as it could affect the planning and execution of future projects.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted community interest in the redevelopment of the mall. Residents expressed hope that the new ownership would lead to positive changes, including potential new businesses. One resident suggested that a name change for the mall could help revitalize its image, while another voiced support for the subdivision of the property to facilitate development.

The Planning Commission members generally supported the developer's approach, recognizing the importance of maintaining access and utility management as part of the redevelopment process. They noted that granting primary plat approval would set a timeline for the project, ensuring that development moves forward without indefinite delays.

In conclusion, the discussions from the meeting reflect a community eager for revitalization and a planning commission committed to facilitating development while ensuring that access and utility concerns are adequately addressed. The next steps will involve further collaboration between the developer and city planning staff to finalize the details of the redevelopment plan.