Eric Kehoe outlines revitalization plan for Lakeview District and its mall site

In the heart of Battle Creek, city planners gathered to discuss a transformative vision for the Lakeview District, an area once dominated by auto-centric development from the 1980s. As the meeting unfolded, Eric Kehoe, a senior planner with Progressive Companies, emphasized the need for revitalization and community engagement to breathe new life into the aging infrastructure and vacant retail spaces.

The Lakeview District, bounded by familiar streets like Capital Avenue and M-66, has seen a decline in vibrancy since its initial boom. Kehoe highlighted the challenges posed by an oversupply of parking—three times the current city requirements—indicating a significant opportunity for redevelopment. The planners aim to shift the focus from car dependency to creating inviting spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.

Community input has been a cornerstone of this planning process, with over 3,000 residents participating through surveys, focus groups, and public events. The feedback distilled into three key themes: place making, green infrastructure, and reducing reliance on cars. Residents expressed a desire for more walkable neighborhoods, where amenities are accessible without the need for a vehicle.

One of the bold proposals includes the partial demolition of the Lakeview Square Mall to restore the creek that once flowed freely through the area. This plan envisions a park that would serve as a community gathering space, addressing the lack of public areas in the district. Kehoe noted that the current mall site, with a 70% vacancy rate, could be transformed into a mixed-use development featuring residential units and a hotel, consolidating successful tenants while replacing outdated spaces.

The planners also discussed traffic calming measures to enhance safety and accessibility along North Capitol Avenue, where existing infrastructure has not kept pace with modern needs. The vision includes a more pedestrian-friendly environment, with improved sidewalks and bike lanes, making it easier for residents to navigate the area.

To bring this vision to fruition, the city plans to restart the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), which would capture revenue for funding improvements. Zoning reforms are also on the agenda, aimed at fostering a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood that aligns with contemporary urban planning trends.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of possibility hung in the air. The proposed changes not only aim to revitalize the Lakeview District but also to enhance the quality of life for its residents, creating a community where people can thrive outside their cars. The journey ahead is filled with challenges, but the commitment to reimagining this once-thriving area is clear, promising a brighter future for Battle Creek.