Ironwood EDC business update looks positive.

IRONWOOD – Growing interest in the Western Upper Peninsula might turn out to be the silver lining of the COVID-19 crisis, according to reports at last night’s meeting of the Ironwood Economic Development Corporation.  In his COVID-19 business update, Tom Bergman, director of community development for the city of Ironwood, said he is hearing at InvestUP meetings that the Upper Peninsula had better than average tourism and sales as compared to previous summers. The exceptions were bars and restaurants and venues that have severe restrictions.  Tim Erickson, community development specialist for the city of Ironwood, said downtown business owners reported that sales were up but inventory challenges remain.  Also discussed was the idea of expanding the city’s industrial zone to include a light industry and a business industrial district. Bergman is polling various city committees and groups to see if there is a need for an additional industrial district. Currently there are only two undeveloped lots remaining at the industrial park a 2 acre and an 11 acre partial.  The next EDC meeting will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4.