(La Porte, IN) - The site of a former bowling alley in La Porte could be redeveloped into a restaurant.

 

An economic development zone is being sought where Thunderbird Lanes used to be on U.S. 35 just north of Indiana 39. A restaurant is being planned where the bowling alley stood for decades until the site was cleared several years ago.

 

Bert Cook, Executive Director of the La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership, said establishing the economic development zone would make the restaurant eligible for tax abatement.

 

“It is a program the city of La Porte has used previously but in very limited instances. We’re very excited about that particular project,” Cook said.

 

The city council gave preliminary approval to the request and is expected to take a final vote at its next meeting on December 19. Cook would not provide specifics about the restaurant proposed for the site because the city has not given all of the approvals necessary for the project to become official.

 

Mayor Tom Dermody said a restaurant at the site across from Pine Lake would provide another dining option for residents wanting more places to eat.

 

“I think the community will be very pleased with what’s coming there,” he said.

 

Dermody said the hope is for the restaurant to go up sometime next year.

 

“What an opportunity to enjoy Pine Lake while having a meal with your family, friends and so forth,” he said.

 

The city has added a number of chain and independently owned eating establishments in recent years in response to public demand.