Old Brewery Could be Reborn

(Lighthouse Image Courtesy: LaPorte County Convention & Visitors Bureau)

An entrepreneur in Michigan City is moving forward with plans to redevelop an old brewing facility into a modern micro-brewery. The Economic Development Corp. of Michigan City says Zorn Holdings LLC has been approved to receive a $260,000 loan from the city’s Revolving Loan Fund.

The EDCMC says owner John Van Prooyen intends to invest $765,000 into the project, which calls for the renovation of the Zorn Brewing Co. manufacturing facility. The brewery could employ 25 workers in the LaPorte County city. The organization says Zorn Holdings’ larger-picture plans include a 44-suite boutique hotel near the brewing operation.

Van Prooyen says "I am excited that this project is moving forward. The Michigan City revolving loan was significant in our decision to invest in Michigan City. I am thankful to the City of Michigan City for its continued support and commitment to both the project and the Elston Grove neighborhood."

The history of the Zorn Brewing brand dates back to the late-1800s.