Plans to turn the Carrousel Shops building on Market Street into a single purpose arcade were submitted to the Mackinac Island Planning Commission for review during their meeting Tuesday, April 11. The property is owned by BSI Carousel Holdings and is operated by KSL Capital Partners LLC (KSL), who also operate Grand Hotel and The Gate House.
Architect Tamara Burns of HopkinsBurns Design Studio presented the plans to the commission, stating that their goal was to keep the outside of the building as similar to the current façade as possible. The building is a non-contributing property in the Market and Main Historic District, but Ms. Burns recognized that it is a familiar sight on the street. To create the arcade, the five shops within the mall and the open-air walkwy will be combined into one space.
The use of the space came into question during Ms. Burns’ presentation, as the plans mention a bar as part of the intended use of the space. Commissioner Trish Martin noted that, traditionally, restaurants and bars have not been permitted on Market Street. Commissioner Jim Pettit pointed out that the city does allow bar and restaurant use on Market Street, but Ms. Martin was hesitant to agree. The commission determined that the zoning ordinance does, in fact, allow for commercial use, including restaurants. David Jurcak, president of operations at Grand Hotel, told the commission the arcade will not be equipped to prepare or serve food or drinks, but such service may be added in the future.
Mr. Pettit noted that if the space were to be used as such, additional considerations would have to be examined, including where trash would be disposed and how much seating could be provided.