Huron plans for better connecting waterfront

HURON — A state grant allows a local community to pursue a special opportunity for better connecting its shoreline, which would benefit residents. Not too long ago, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources provided $35,000 to Huron's government through its coastal management assistance grant program. It'll help city officials undertake a first-of-its-kind lakefront plan covering several prominent sites. This would include the former Showboat Restaurant property, Lakefront Park and a public beach behind Huron's water plant. "What we are hoping to accomplish, with significant public and stakeholder input, is to first try to create enhanced public connections between those three public spaces," Huron city manager Matt Lasko said. "We also hope to come up with a revamped plan for the former Showboat Restaurant property that will further activate it beyond its current status as a parking lot and grass space," Lasko said. In the next two months, city officials want to select an architectural firm, which would kickstart the design and public input processes. It's unknown exactly what the connection could look like and how much it could cost, among other details. The planning process, which will likely occur throughout 2024, aims to provide more clarity.