Ribbon Cutting for Highway 212 Business Center

Business is back at the site of the former Chuck's 212 building in Michigan City, and more could be on the way in the near future.

Hightec Solar, a Michigan City-based company that manufactures solar panels, has expanded their business to the site of the former Chuck's 212, which Sixth Ward Councilman Chris Schwanke called "Wal-Mart before we had Wal-Mart."

Fred McNeeley, owner of Hightec Solar, says that since the move to a larger location, he has been able to double his number of employees. He also has plans to lease the property with other local small businesses, which will at some point make up the Highway 212 Business Center.

A ribbon cutting was held Tuesday to mark the occasion. Joining McNeeley at the ribbon cutting were Schwanke, Michigan City Mayor Ron Meer, City Planner Craig Phillips, and CPA Paul Applegate.

"All these people were instrumental in making this possible," McNeeley said. "I hope to bring more businesses here soon."

Prior to expanding Hightec Solar, which has been located across Highway 212 from their current location for years, the area had to be re-zoned from business to manufacturing.

Meer said that the area, located on the east side of Michigan City, is a place he hopes "will stimulate further expansion."

"This is what we mean by supporting small business," he said. "Sometimes you start with seven or eight employees and are able to grow to 20 or 40. This man (McNeeley) clearly has a vision for expansion."