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Hancock’s master plan analysis with Progressive Engineers and Architects is nearly finished. Last night the planning commission met with officials from Progressive Engineers and architects to review their findings so far from the April and May master plan public input sessions. James Killborn, an associate planner with the urban planning firm, guided the commission through responses the city received during the input sessions as well as responses gathered through an online survey of what residents wish to see in the city, and how residents view current infrastructure and amenities in town. Commissioners offered their own input to the firm’s suggested updates, mostly on language and clarification. Progressive Engineers and Architects will plan to return to the area in the near future to further assist Hancock with the last phases of updating the city’s master plan.
The commission also received updates on the placement of the clock near the end of downtown, at the US – 41 and M – 203 intersection. City Manger, Mary Babcock noted that the city will look to have a pair of street signs moved to a better location so the clock is more visible.
Last the commission got the first look at potential updates to the Houghton County Arena, including a slight name change. Commonly referred too as the HoCo Arena by residents, Hancock may consider keeping the acronym, but to mean Hockey Country Arena. The city is working with OHM currently on concepts for the arena’s signage, exterior, and infrastructure. One project the city plans to include with the changes is an elevator to the second floor community room. Hancock will likely seek grant funding for that project, in order to conform with ADA compliance. No arena plans have been made official yet, though the city is excited take claim of such an asset within the community.
The commission did also approve a letter of support for New Power Tour and the GasTech Grant with the Department of Energy.
