A city of Marquette lifeguard walks South Beach in Marquette during a recent summer hot spell in a previous year. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE — If you enjoy spending time at South Beach in Marquette, you’ve probably noticed parking is often in short supply.

Parking is not allowed on South Lake Street. (There is one “no parking” sign posted on South Lake Street.)

The parking lot by the beach looks large, but fills up on sunny days, especially in July and August.

But a bit of help is on the way.

John Prince, chairman of Marquette Board of Light and Power, said grading has been completed and the fence between the beach parking lot and the former Shiras Steam Plant property just north of the beach, is being temporarily moved back.

The newly extended space will accommodate approximately 18 additional parking spaces.

This work is currently underway and will be completed this season, said Matt Zavislak, manager of administrative services for the Marquette Board of Light and Power.

The Shiras plant has been demolished and the fenced-in area is currently used to store heavy equipment.

The BLP has had proposals for several possible uses for the property.

“Citizens have brought proposals for possible uses for the property. All really good ideas,” Prince said. However, there are bottom lands on part of the property which could limit use.

And Prince points out that while the BLP has responsibility and authority over certain energy properties, “we don’t own or manage them.”

Any long-term use of the property would need to “align with the city of Marquette’s master plan for the area and what zoning allows,” said Prince.

Vickie Fee can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 542. Her email address is vfee@miningjournal.net.