Business View Civil and Municipal l January 2023

38 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 9, ISSUE 12 We have, for example, a large existing company currently operating just under 250,000 sq. ft. looking at a major expansion that will effectively triple the size of their business and double the number of employees in their care. In addition, we recognize that our industrial park is near capacity, so we are partnering with our local and regional utility providers to prepare the next area of development for business growth, which we’ve already identified within the city.” Douglas identifies major projects underway in the city that have all been designed post-COVID. “Our biggest city projects are The Linc, which is a downtown housing and mixed-use development project that will offer 127 units, ranging from lofts to three-bedroom residences across three buildings. We aim to break ground in the next 60 to 90 days. Across the street will be a multi- level public parking garage with more than 300 spaces, supporting The Linc and better serving activity in the area. Across the street from the garage will be another mixed-use development building with more than 35,000 sq. ft. across four stories. This will be designed to house retail and professional service businesses and will kick off after the completion of the garage project.” “We’re also excited about the opening of Journeyman Distillery. This regional destination transforms an old manufacturing facility into a truly multipurpose venue that will house a distillery, brewery, barrel storage, restaurant, and event space run by a local businessman with a similar site in Michigan. Complementing Journeyman, will be the Grand Gardner Hotel, converting a historic school into a beautiful boutique hotel with 55 beds, a speakeasy, and a meeting place. We look to see this project break ground sometime in 2023.” Nuppnau adds, “To serve our community, we have introduced a multifaceted Valpo for All Generations initiative, which will be completed in stages. First, we are creating a brand-new, next-generation skatepark on the north side sportsfacilities.com 727.474.3845 whether your community needs this. . .or that we can help. Facility Operations & Development. Recreation & Tourism Master Planning. Feasibility Studies & Market Assessments.