Affordable housing, notable small businesses, exceptional facilities, and special events; when it comes to “Livin’ The Lake Life”, Mayor Tom Dermody wants residents to know that he’s setting new standards for the City of La Porte.
“When you have something special that other communities would like to have, we have to make sure we are maintaining our city properly,” he said.
Dermody is excited to see where the rest of the year takes the city as improvements continue to be made across a variety of departments, starting with housing.
Some rental apartments are embracing the mantra “out with the old, in with the new” as renovations are being made to complexes in the area. Dermody says he and his team plan to turn one specific complex into 39 housing units.
“We’re knocking them down and turning it into something positive,” he said.
This is part of the city’s initiative to make housing options unique, cost-effective, and fitting to La Porte and its residents. Dermody is working to ensure that residency is at the forefront.
“We are developing and focusing on making housing high-end and affordable,” he said. “We’re providing housing of all types of options.”
The City of La Porte’s downtown area also houses many small businesses that Dermody is thrilled for residents to enjoy as they stroll the sidewalks, especially some of the city’s newest additions and restaurants.
“We have a variety of opportunities and food choices for people to dine in, walk downtown, and enjoy what the City of La Porte has to offer,” Dermody said.
Downtown Delights, a frozen yogurt and smoothie shop, recently opened this past summer on Lincolnway. The shop serves over a dozen flavors with a selection of toppings galore. According to its Facebook page, the shop “proudly serves delicious, premium frozen yogurt made with the finest natural ingredients.”
Grab a bite at Maple and Rye for breakfast or lunch, located on Michigan Ave. With a plethora of options sure to make mouths water, guests can also enjoy a comfortable atmosphere in their dining room. For those who would rather take their scrumptious meal to go, Maple and Rye has pick-up options.
Zorro’s Mediterranean Fusion has also become an addition on Lincolnway with its diverse menu and “social kitchen full of adventure,” according to its Facebook page. Try a couple of specialties like grape leaves and build your own bowls by visiting their new location.
Nothing better than dinner and a show! The definition of entertainment has transformed in La Porte thanks to the city’s latest event space, La Stitch. As a way to bring the community together in a cozy, outdoor space, La Stitch’s goal is clear: to “stitch” La Porte together. Read more about the space Dermody is excited about here.
Dermody says residents can also catch multiple concerts at the La Porte Civic Auditorium throughout the year.
“It’s an iconic building and it’s what we call the ‘people’s house’ of La Porte,” he said.
As Mayor, Dermody and his administration are pleased to provide for his community with upgrades and improvements. Learn more about what the City of La Porte has in the works by visiting its website.
