Lakeshore Resource Network construction will continue following fire investigation.

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By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief.

LUDINGTON — The destruction of the future Lakeshore Resource Network building at 920 E. Tinkham Ave. early this morning will likely not cause a delay in the projected opening of the facility, which is scheduled for February of 2017.

Monica Schuyler, executive director of the Pennies from Heaven Foundation, which is one of the lead organizations in creating the multi-agency food and social services facility, said this morning’s fire at the building was a shock.

“Our groundbreaking ceremony was on Wednesday,” Schuyler said. “We were all very excited and taking a giant step forward. Now it feels like we will take a step back.”

Due to zoning setback restrictions, part of building had already been partially dismantled to make way for a future fire station, owned by the city. The remaining portion of the former Lakeshore Lumber building was going to be the home of the Lakeshore Resource Network. “Construction was scheduled to take place until after the holiday weekend, so no improvements had taken place inside,” Schuyler said. “We have been talking to the architect and Malliett Construction and they will make some adaptions. However, because they are no longer fixing up an old building, there may be a silver lining, allowing them to start fresh.”

Schuyler said the utilities had been shut off at the building, which makes the origin of the fire suspicious, she said. “The fire marshall is suppose to be here on Tuesday and we have already been in contact with our insurance agent. Hopefully once the investigation takes place we can move forward and still complete construction on time.”