Change may be imminent for city-owned Chinook Pier
Wed, Nov 18, 2009 
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BY ALEX DOTY
adoty@grandhaventribune.com
Change may be on the horizon for one of Grand Haven's riverfront properties.
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City officials intend to apply for a $200,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp., which would be used to renovate the aging Chinook Pier facilities, which are located along Harbor Drive and the Grand Haven boardwalk.
According to City Manager Pat McGinnis, the city would be providing a $260,000 match for the proposed renovation project.
"I can't say enough good about going out and getting the grant," said Ray Murray, owner of Temptations, a longtime Chinook Pier tenant.
According to city officials, Murray recently signed a long-term lease with the city to continue occupying space at the waterfront property.
If approved, the MEDC grant would be used to improve the facade, deck, roof, windows and doors of the Chinook Pier buildings. Work would also be done to revamp the building's heating, ventilation and air conditioning units.
"It is great for us and it's great for Grand Haven," Murray said.
From a business standpoint, he said customers have a tendency to enjoy a business that is fresh and remodeled — something an updated Chinook Pier would offer to its customers.
"We've got the first 25 years under our belts, so it will be nice to go another 25," Murray said.
If everything shakes out in the city's favor, it is anticipated that construction could begin in late winter or early spring at an estimated cost of $460,000.
The two buildings of Chinook Pier were built in 1984. The city has long owned the land and bought the buildings in January 2005 for $1.06 million.
"The buildings of Chinook Pier are not in good shape and need to be refurbished," Mayor Roger Bergman said. "As a retailer myself, I know the importance of an attractive building versus one that is looking run down."
Bergman said the customers will be the ultimate voice to let store owners know if the improvements are a benefit by how much they patronize their businesses. He also pointed out how a rejuvenated Chinook Pier space could impact more than just customer turnout.
"I know that we will have a much better chance of getting good tenants in a newly remodeled Chinook Pier," the mayor said.
