Summary
Lighthouse Point has been used by the community as a natural park and walking trail for years. As the North Shore has become more highly developed, public access to shoreline has become very limited, so this stretch in Two Harbors is indeed a jewel that is an asset to the community. It also has environmental significance and is important in its location close to the water intake for the city.
The Lighthouse Point land was used as a park while still owned by the railroad and the city of Two Harbors was in negotiations to buy the land. In December 2002, a developer bought extensive property in Two Harbors, including the majority of Lighthouse Point, from the holding company of the DM&IR Railroad. The developer, Sam Cave, has made several different proposals for building on various parts of the point.
The land in question consists of a wooded ridge that extends away from the lighthouse, approximately 27 acres, and an open area at the base of the point, approximately 10 acres. The Sonju walking trails, built in the 1990s with community support, are heavily used by local residents and area visitors.
In October 2006, representatives of the City Council negotiated a compromise settlement of a range of issues with the developer. If the plans are carried out as agreed, much of the lakeshore of Lighthouse Point will be preserved as a City Park, while a total of nine buildings will be allowed on the area at the base of the point and the area facing Agate Bay.
The Lighthouse Point Group appreciates the City's efforts to obtain and protect some of our fragile Lake Superior shoreline. However, allowing development next to a sewer plant with documented overflows and in a former industrial area with contaminated soils could put the city at risk of lawsuits by the future residents of these projects. The Lighthouse Point Group will continue to monitor the permitting and construction process.
October 2006 Agreement summary