Many people gathered along the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Manitowoc yesterday (June 3rd), as the Lakeshore Pavilion was officially opened. We spoke with Manitowoc Mayor Justin Nickels, who was very happy to have this brand new facility available to the public.
“If you have driven down Maritime Drive lately, you have undoubtedly seen this beautiful building,” Nickels said. “The building houses men’s and women’s restrooms, an outdoor beach shower facility, and covered seating. The building is heated and will be accessible year-round.”
The design of the building was not random, as it took design ideas from many different places.
He described the building, saying they took “design nods from early turn of the century boathouses, the pavilion has a covered colonnade on all four sides. The roof is cedar shake, with details that match the bus stop downtown. At the very top is a sailboat weathervane. Wall stone of the pavilion has subtle grey and blue tones and was harvested in Door County.”
The pavilion will also house a water fountain which will be usable not only for walkers and bikers, but also for those with disabilities, and pets.
While the city funded part of the project, there were multiple private donations that made it possible.
“The city funded enough for a restroom facility. The donors allowed us to make it a beautiful attraction along our Lake Michigan shore,” Mayor Nickels explained. “The West Foundation contributed $150,000.”
He also named A.C.E. Building Service, Bank First, Maritime Plumbing and Mechanical, Braun Building Center, Diener Electric, Citywide Masonry, Manitowoc Heating, and Lee’s Color Studio.
Mayor Nickels also thanked painters Erin LaBonte and Don Krupus, as well as Nick Mueller, who served as the architect for the project.
