A mixed-use, mixed-income development project is moving forward after the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission approved the project’s term sheet.
Project Wabash, at 7th and Wabash Streets, would include five stories, 45 to 60 apartments and commercial space for three tenants, including an anchor restaurant. Plans for the apartments include units at market and workforce rates.
“As an infill project, the development is poised to transform an underutilized space in our city and spark revitalization with new housing and retail options,” said Clarence Hulse, Economic Development Corp. Michigan City executive director, in a press release.
The $20 million project is led by Wisconsin-based Julian Walters’ Eminent Development Corp. The company focuses on creating housing solutions and community development projects with a community-centric approach.
“This development is uniquely positioned to deliver a housing product that current residents can truly enjoy, while also paving the way for Michigan City’s future growth,” Walters said. “With a strong unit count and a modern design that thoughtfully incorporates the historic aesthetic of Michigan City, we are confident this project will resonate with the community and earn broad support.”
Walters said the project’s hybrid model of housing is necessary for the city’s progress.
“Michigan City has a growing need for high-quality workforce units to help retain essential professionals, teachers, police officers, firefighters, health care staff and young professionals who form the backbone of the community, Walters said. “This project is designed to support that need, offering attainable housing options that strengthen both the local workforce and the city’s long-term economic vitality.”
Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said housing is a key focus for her team.
“Today, more than 2,000 new residential units are under construction or permitted for development over the next five years,” Nelson Deuitch said. “Project Wabash is an exciting addition to that momentum, offering both market-rate and workforce-rate apartments, with roughly 40 to 60% of units designed to meet the needs of our workforce.”
The project will break ground in spring 2026. The first residents would move in during summer 2027.
“Over the past two years, I have visited Michigan City numerous times and have been genuinely inspired by the momentum underway,” Walters said. “The people, the history and the public infrastructure all reflect a community that deserves the investment and growth that is coming. Michigan City is truly a place of opportunity both now and for the foreseeable future.”
