Ribbon cutting sparks excitement

“Downtown Depot Pavilion” hosts first concert

 

IMLAY CITY — Prior to the start of the city commission meeting Tuesday, June 17, city officials and other guests gathered at the new Downtown Depot Pavilion at the corner of Main and E. Third St. to celebrate the grand opening of the new covered space.

The pavilion was completed in the nick of time, one day prior to the opening of the Farmer’s Market, according to Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Christine Malzahn.

“We were really hoping and pushing to get it done before the opening of our Farmer’s Market (earlier in June) and our builder (Tanis Builders) got it done for us,” Malzahn said. “It turned out beautifully.”

The DDA Executive Director went on to add, “This exciting new addition marks a major milestone in the continued revitalization of downtown Imlay City. The pavilion is set to become a lively hub for community events, including the “Concerts in the Pavilion” series on Tuesday evenings and the Imlay City Farmers Market every Thursday.

The concert series followed the ribbon cutting ceremony, featuring a performance by Jazz on Wheels.

“This isn’t just a pavilion, it’s a gathering space, a celebration of community, and a big step forward for downtown,” said Malzahn. “We’re excited to bring new energy, events, and opportunities to Imlay City.”

The DDA wants to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Lapeer County Community Foundation for their generous support in bringing this vision to life. Their partnership and commitment to the future of our community made this project possible.

Lapeer County Community Foundation Executive Director Nancy Boxey, who presented the Imlay City DDA a check for $15,000 told the small gathering of visitors, “The Lapeer County Community Foundation is proud to support the Imlay City downtown pavilion project through a grant from the Lapeer County Community Fund. This new space will serve as a vibrant hub for community life. It’s an investment in connection, culture, and the kind of place where memories are made and shared. We commend the vision of the Downtown Development Authority and the City of Imlay City for creating this space and bringing the community together in such a meaningful way.”

She went on to add, “At the Lapeer County Community Foundation, we’re always looking to support projects that enhance the quality of life for our local residents. Strong downtowns and welcoming community gathering spaces like this pavilion don’t just bring people together – they also create the kind of environment where small businesses can thrive and visitors want to explore. It’s about building both community and opportunity.”

The new structure features a 40×60 concrete pad with an elevated platform for musical groups. Electricity and lights have been added to the pavilion and future plans call for picnic tables and benches.

The project finished up with an overall cost of $64,950, according to Malzahn. It is the third one of it’s kind built in the area by the Tanis crew. The others are located near the old school in Imlay City near Fifth St and one on the Imlay Twp. property.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the city commission held a brief meeting. Malzahn informed the board at the end of their meeting she has accepted the city manager position in the City of Marlette and will be taking over those duties July 1.

City Manager Craig Horton said he will be adding the DDA Director job to his duties on an interim basis until a new Executive Director is hired.