Escanaba Downtown Day to highlight reopened Ludington Street
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ESCANABA -- The completion of the Ludington Street reconstruction project will take center stage during Escanaba's Downtown Day celebration Saturday, giving residents and visitors a chance to experience the newly improved downtown streetscape.
Initiated by the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), Downtown Day is an opportunity for communities across Michigan to celebrate all that their downtowns have to offer. Residents and visitors are encouraged to shop local, dine at downtown restaurants, enjoy recreational activities and experience the cultural aspects that bring each community to life.
According to Governor Gretchen Whitmer's proclamation for this year's Downtown Day, "MDA believes that now more than ever Michigan residents need to support downtowns and the businesses within by shopping, dining, attending an event or volunteering."
The Escanaba Downtown Development Authroity (DDA) says the day is an opportunity to showcase the businesses and organizations that make up the local downtown district while encouraging people to return to Ludington Street and explore the changes. The Gladstone DDA will also be hosting their third annual Downtown Day on Saturday.
Escanaba's Downtown Day comes less than two weeks after Ludington Street reopened to traffic following two years of construction. The project included major water and sewer improvements, new streetscape features and improvements designed to make the downtown corridor more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
"We are beyond thrilled to welcome everyone back to Ludington Street this Downtown Day. Ludington Street is open, our doors are wide open and there's no better time to rediscover the heart of our community," said Sue Parker, chair of the Escanaba DDA and owner of Nyman Jewelers.
The Escanaba Farmers Market will also be open Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Escanaba Marketplace, offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items and other locally produced goods.
“The Farmers Market is a great place to start your Downtown Day,” said Judy Schroeder, market manager. “It is the perfect way to taste and experience the very best of what our community has to offer before heading down Ludington Street for breakfast or to visit downtown shops.”
Downtown shoppers can visit stores, boutiques and specialty shops along Ludington Street, while restaurants, diners and bars will offer opportunities to grab a meal or drink.
"We've been very busy since Ludington Street has reopened," said Josh Hoogerhyde, owner of Swedish Pantry in Escanaba. "It is great to see everyone back downtown.”
Additionally, the Bonifas Arts Center and East Ludington Gallery will provide opportunities to experience and support local art.
“Come see our latest Studio Gallery exhibition, which highlights our Membership Show Featured Artist Award winner, Austin Ash,” said Bonifas Gallery Director Kate Oman. “It is a fantastic opportunity to see a dedicated solo collection up close.”
Shoppers can also purchase and enjoy a drink from participating establishments within Escanaba’s social district, including South City Pub, Cat-Man-Do's Bar & Grille, Mugshots and La Cantina Mexican Restaurant.
More information about Downtown Day in Escanaba is available at escanabadowntown.com.
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Sophie Vogelmann can be reached at 906-786-2021, ext. 148, or svogelmann@dailypress.net.