Downtown Kalamazoo installs outdoor restrooms costing over $100,000
KALAMAZOO, Mich. — The Kalamazoo Downton Partnership installed the "Portland Loo," a public outdoor restroom facility, worth over $100,000.
The restroom, scheduled to open in November, would be located at the northwest corner of the city-owned parking lot at 108 E. Water Street, directly behind the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Center for New Media.
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"Over the years, we have heard from a variety of downtown stakeholders the need for public facilities, particularly to provide options overnight and during weekends and evenings," Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership President Andrew Haan said. "The installation of the pilot 'Portland Loo' is a key first step in addressing these concerns. We are confident the restroom will serve as an amenity to visitors and residents alike."
Partnership officials said the Kalamazoo City Commission approved the purchase in May 2019. It was funded through the initial allocation of Foundation for Excellence funds for downtown projects and investments.
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Haan said the partnership would be in charge of the maintenance, including cleanings and restocking multiple times a day.
Samantha May is a digital news producer, and can be reached at samay@sbgtv.com.
