The city expects additional $100,000 on marina revenue bottom line
PETOSKEY, MI -- In April, we told you about an expansion at the Petoskey Marina that city leaders anticipated would bring more boats and more money to the area.
So has it? We found out if the city is already seeing a return on its investment.
In a city that relies on the marine industry, the need for additional dock space was there. The city of Petoskey built 44 additional slips that opened this summer, and so far, they've been a hot hit.
"Huge, I mean I think the slips are already taken, it's huge for the area," said Bill Kibbey, who was visiting the marina Friday.
Becky and Bill Kibbey used to have a tough time reserving a spot for their boat "Sunseeker" at the Petoskey Marina. This year, it was a little easier. A few slips down, Dr. Seuss inspired boat named "Zizzer" sits for the summer. The Kettling's waited six years to get this spot.
"Offered us a slip, and we were delighted and surprised, we really love it up here, it's great," said Ralph and Deb Kettling.
"It’s been a real bonus to the city and the community," said Al Hansen, Director of Parks and Rec for Petoskey.
Hansen says the additional slips, a new restroom facility, and improved amenities have paid off.
The $2.1 million project added 44 slips for a total of 144 and on the weekends, they've been filling up. The slips will add an additional 35 percent to the total marina revenue -- roughly $100,000 a year.
“We've increased our capacity by almost 40 percent so I think it'll have a big impact on them," said Hansen.
The Kettling's and Kibbey's say they're contributing. In fact, Ralph and Deb Kettling have brought their business of selling small appliances with them.
“We have smallspacesappliances.com, which we're very happy we're able to run right on the boat here in the middle of Petoskey harbor," said Ralph.
