KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Wednesday, the Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership announced the installation of the “Portland Loo,” a public outdoor restroom facility, in Downtown Kalamazoo.
Located at the northwest corner of the City-owned parking lot at 108 E. Water Street, directly behind the KVCC Center for New Media, the restroom will be available for public use 24 hours a day, with multiple cleanings and restocking daily.
“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 in a statement. “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.”
In May 2019, the Kalamazoo City Commission approved the purchase of the restroom for $107,440 to be funded through Foundation for Excellence (FFE) funds for downtown projects and investments. The restroom supports the Imagine Kalamazoo strategic goal to create inviting public places.
Following the approval of the purchase, officials say a number of locations were considered, with the spot on Water Street eventually selected for its proximity to existing utilities and its accessibility to the public.
The facility includes a handwash basin, baby changing table, sharps container and an upgrade for a cold-weather toilet. It will be maintained by Kalamazoo Downtown Partnership with cleanings and restocking to occur multiple times daily, as well as regular monitoring by Kalamazoo Public Safety.
The Portland Loo will open in November upon the completion of the parking lot construction.
Additional information about the Portland Loo and its features can be found at Portland Loo website.
