It’s a bit out of the way, but renovating a historic building is often a good move.

In the case of the depot building along Fifth Street in the city of Marquette, it’s definitely a good move.

The Marquette City Planning Commission recently assessed and approved a site plan for 200 S. Fifth St., which is the site of the historic train depot building. The plan is for the building to be remodeled and named the Back Lot. Presenting the plan to the commission was 484 Bennaville LLC and Barry L. Polzin Architects Inc.

Architect Polzin said the concept of the Back Lot includes a large open interior space for dining and drinking outdoors, with the building featuring a rooftop patio, solar panels on the roof and a new parking lot. During the winter months, food vendors could rent the three indoor kitchens.

Polzin pointed out that the adjacent multi-use path would complement the entire project.

We agree. Bicyclists, hikers and other travelers go by this building all the time, and the project would take care of this eyesore. Abandoned historic buildings aren’t always a bad thing, but in this case, lack of use really isn’t serving the community. As Planning Commissioner Michael Larson said, it’s a “great use of property that has been underutilized.”

The original plan also included a duplex to be built near the Back Lot, but there is not enough space for a fire truck to turn around in an emergency. So, this idea was pulled from the proposal.

The Marquette Planning Commission apparently agreed with idea of renovating the building into the Back Lot, having approved the plan on the condition that an amended plan is submitted to meet staff comments.

We support the project and look forward to its development.