A feasibility study evaluates how a site can be redeveloped by examining physical conditions, environmental restraints and considerations, infrastructure and utility capacity, market demand, regulatory requirements, costs, and potential community benefits to determine realistic redevelopment options.

The former coal power plant that existed on the site for more than 5 decades was decommissioned in 2013 and demolished in 2020. Given its size, waterfront location, and unique shape and features, the site represents a significant opportunity for future use. The feasibility study will help identify redevelopment options that are safe, economically viable, and aligned with community goals.

No. The feasibility study does not commit the community or property owner to a specific redevelopment plan. Its purpose is to explore options and provide information to support future decisions. The primary outcome of the study will be all relevant information about the site organized into a document including a summary of existing conditions, results of public engagement, environmental and market analyses, and a roadmap for how to achieve various feasible redevelopment options.

The HCEDC contracted a multidisciplinary consultant team with expertise in planning, environmental review, engineering, and economic analysis, working in coordination with the property owner and City of Harbor Beach to conduct the study. These experts will guide these stakeholders and offer insight and recommendations based on best practices in these fields.

The study may evaluate a range of potential uses, such as energy, commercial, mixed-use, recreational, or other community-supported opportunities. Options will be screened based on feasibility, compatibility with surrounding uses, and regulatory requirements. The ultimate reuse of the site will more than likely be a mix of uses, given its size and unique features and layout.

Yes. In 2024, the State of Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) approved a No Further Action (NFA) determination under Michigan’s Part 201 program, subject to restrictive covenants. The study will review these known environmental conditions, including prior site assessments and conditions of contamination that lead to the NFA status, as well as any remaining remediation requirements. This information is critical to understanding redevelopment constraints and opportunities for a site that operated as heavy industrial for many decades.

Yes. The feasibility study may assess whether existing buildings and infrastructure can be reused, adapted, or should be removed as part of redevelopment scenarios.

The study is expected to take several months to complete. A more specific timeline will be provided as the work progresses.

Yes. Community input is an important part of the process. Opportunities for public engagement such as meetings, surveys, or workshops will be announced as the study advances.

Public input will help inform redevelopment priorities, identify concerns, and shape evaluation criteria for potential reuse options. While not all ideas may be feasible, community feedback will be considered alongside technical and economic factors.

Once completed, the study will be shared publicly and may be used to guide future planning, marketing, funding applications, or redevelopment decisions. Any future redevelopment would require additional approvals and public processes.

No. The feasibility study itself does not change taxes or utility rates. Any future redevelopment proposals would be evaluated separately, including their potential fiscal impacts.

Contact information for the project team is available on this website to the right. Questions and comments are welcome throughout the study process.