Northwest Indiana Forum Supports Economic Development Project at Indiana Dunes State Park

filler2The Northwest Indiana Forum (Forum) Managing Board of Directors unanimously approved a resolution supporting the proposed projects of renovating the Indiana Dunes Park Pavilion and the addition of a conference/banquet center within the Indiana Dunes State Park. The resolution was approved after representatives of the Pavilion Partners presented the benefits of the projects at the Forum’s June Board of Directors meeting.

Approval was based on the recommendation of the Forum’s Public Policy committee report citing:
“Pavilion Partners is making a substantial private investment in an underutilized public asset. The partnership is comprised of a qualified team of professionals that are engaged and actively working with the multitude of diverse constituencies interested in this project…This project represents a significant opportunity to grow the economic opportunities from hospitality, create a highly desired destination and reclaim an asset that can continue to improve and reinforce this area’s image as a fun, safe and family-friendly destination.”

In response to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) request of proposal for the restoration and adaptive reuse of the Indiana Dunes State Park Pavilion, the Pavilion Partners are providing a significant financial investment to Northwest Indiana to bring residents and tourists the amenities sparsely found along the lakefront: restrooms, showers, lockers, restaurants and other beach related concessions.

Northwest Indiana Forum board members did request that the Pavilion Partners return to a future board meeting to present more detailed plans and renderings for the conference/banquet center portion of the project.

“We are excited to see the investment on the lakefront and enhanced attraction of people to one of our greatest assets,” said Heather Ennis, President and CEO of the Forum “This project will enrich the experience of millions of visitors to our region.”

Pavilion Partners LLC is an investment group that has assembled a team of expert talent to renovate the Indiana Dunes Park Pavilion and additional conference/banquet center through a public/private partnership with the State of Indiana. Specifically, the team is experienced in historic building renovation, restaurant, banquet center and event management, and has had a significant presence in the food, beverage and tourism industry in Northwest Indiana.

The Northwest Indiana Forum is the regional voice for the business community and a significant catalyst for initiatives that promote economic development and create and retain quality jobs in Lake, Porter, La Porte and Starke Counties. Funded by membership contributions and grants, membership translates into a direct investment in the region.