ESCANABA — Anyone interested in opening a restaurant in the Escanaba Harbor area still has time to submit a proposal to the city.

According to City Manager Jim McNeil, the city has not yet received any proposals. He expects proposals to arrive closer to the Jan. 31, 2024 deadline.

The city is seeking a lessee that will consider a land lease, build to suit, or alternative lease arrangement that maintains the city’s ownership of the land in Ludington Park near the harbor area. A potential lessee must be experienced in the food and beverage industry and able to operate a public restaurant and bar. This includes the applicant being able to obtain all licenses and permits necessary for the facility’s operation.

All proposals submitted to the city will remain sealed until after the submission deadline. Proposals must be received no later than 4 p.m. on Jan. 31, 2024.

Specifics about the city’s request for proposals are available on the city’s website, www.escanaba.org.