Newport Shores development meeting draws a crowd

More than 100 people packed the back room at Newport Shores restaurant on Port Washington’s lakefront Thursday to learn about Ansay Development’s plan for the area.

Stations were set up around the room where people could view renderings and videos of the proposed Newport Shores development, make suggestions and have their questions answered by representatives of Ansay.

“One of the things we want to make sure is that people judge this on what it is,” said Ian McCain, Ansay’s design/construction manager. 

Ansay’s plan would create a multi-use building at the current site of Newport Shores, a neighboring house and garage and some adjoining city land. 

The building, which would feature a bold, glassy, modern design, would house offices, condominiums, a restaurant and pub as well as a retail store while relocating the Kiwanis shelter and fish cleaning station near the marina.

Those attending largely felt the session was a valuable resource.

“I think it’s good for the community to have the opportunity to ask questions,” said Mary Monday.

“It’s helpful to educate people and to clear up any kind of rumors,” one man said, noting he hasn’t decided how he feels about the proposed development.

“I’m still on the fence,” he said.

People on both sides of the fence attended the session.

“It’s a shame, in a way, to get rid of the quaintness. But I think it’s great,” said Tim Lewein. “It’s very attractive coming in from Lake Michigan. When you’re coming from the west going east, it’s impressive.”

Ray Shupe agreed, saying the modern design of the building fits the area.

“I like the look of the building — it’s very glassy, very airy,” Shupe said. “I like the fact it’s far enough from downtown it doesn’t take anything away from the (historic) downtown.”

His wife Brenda disagreed, saying the building doesn’t fit in with the rest of the community.

“I don’t want to be one of those people who says no progress. But I’ve been saying this is the South Beach —as in Florida — condominiums. It goes along with the Southwest condos over there,” she said, gesturing toward the Lighthouse Condominiums across from the restaurant on Lake Street. “Neither of those go with Port Washington.”