Planning for Maui Sands' makeover

SANDUSKY — As demolition continues of portions of the long-closed Maui Sands water park, officials overseeing this work recently announced plans to redevelop this site with a new hotel and other business offerings. Contractor Ed Burdue & Company, of Sandusky, continues to take down buildings — on both its east and west sides — at this site, 5513 Milan Road (U.S. 250), in Perkins Township. But the 96-room hotel and the former water park building will be retained, according to an announcement released by the Greater Sandusky Partnership, which is helping the project move forward. All demolition work should end within the next few weeks. Plans call for the former water park building to be transformed into "one of the area's most distinctive entertainment and event-focused destinations," according to a partnership statement. What is known Many details — including the project's specific amenities, timeline, overall cost and funding sources along with the potential of a new water park — haven't been released yet. It's likely more information will be publicly released by the end of the year, according to the partnership. Though the revamped property will get a new name. The developer is working with a list of companies that will provide offerings that should interest local residents as well as tourists, said Nico Samaniego, the partnership's business development director. Maui Sands sits at a prominent location, just north of the intersection of Ohio 2 and U.S. 250. The news release underscored how the redevelopment will provide "an inviting new gateway to Perkins Township's and the Sandusky area's primary commercial corridor." Erie County officials obtained a $500,000 grant last fall from the Ohio Department of Development to get the demolition work carried out, propelling the redevelopment work forward. "The state of Ohio, through the Ohio Department of Development, creates programs like this one to help revitalize legacy cities across Ohio," Samaniego said. The demolition will free up close to 4 acres of land. And the new project is expected to improve Bay Winds Drive and connect the property better with neighboring businesses. Partnering on the project The property is being redeveloped by Sinmier, the site's current owner. "We've truly appreciated the collaborative approach we've been able to take in reimagining this property," Sinmier's development director Jesse Grewal said. Aside from Sinmier, support has come from various partners, including the partnership, Erie County's land bank, Perkins Township's government, Shores & Islands Ohio as well as local businesses. "Perkins Township is pleased to see that demolition is finally going forward at the Maui Sands property," township trustee Tim Coleman said. "For many years, this site has attracted trespassers using this property for illegal and unwanted use, causing property damage, and health and safety concerns." Grewal specifically extended appreciation to those working for the land bank and the partnership, noting how they've been "instrumental in providing the opportunity to build consensus with the local community leaders on how to optimize this property for the needs of the community." "This project represents not only a physical transformation but a renewed commitment to creating spaces that add long-term value to our region," Grewal said. Editor's note: This article has been updated.