City Council members voted unanimously to move ahead with the purchase of a vacant lot located in the northwest corner of 7th and Franklin Streets during the June 19th city council meeting.

The new land acquisition would add on to the parcel already owned on the southwest corner of 7th and Franklin Streets and would cost $178,200 including interest over the next five years.

Numerous members that attended the meeting including residents and local business owners spoke up in support of the purchase stating that a new plaza will help increase traffic and sales in the downtown area ultimately helping businesses prosper.

Members of the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Association, and Michigan City Redevelopment team expressed their ideas of utilizing the new plaza to host events and festivals without the need to close down streets that would block off business to local stores.