Spring Contest Winner
Allegan resident Pat Jenkins captured a beautiful spring day along the riverfront in Allegan in her prize-winning photo contest entry from 2013
(Courtesy)
ALLEGAN, MI -- The city of Allegan now has a leg up on surrounding Southwest Michigan communities after being named one of the "coolest small towns of 2015" by Budget Travel.
Allegan, which has a population of nearly 5,000, ranked fourth in the travel magazine's 10th annual award after receiving 7 percent of the vote in an online poll.
Tim Perrigo, executive director of the Allegan Chamber of Commerce, said the city is "thrilled" to be recognized as one of America's coolest small towns.
"Allegan boasts a beautiful downtown along the Kalamazoo River, great schools, outstanding employers, and top notch health care through the nationally recognized Allegan General Hospital," Perrigo said in an email to the Kalamazoo Gazette. "But the best part about Allegan is the people. We care for our neighbors and are passionate about our community."
Budget Travel defines cool as "an energetic vibe that often combines community spirit with a vibrant arts scene, great food, natural beauty, and unique history."
Grand Marais, Minn., secured the top spot among the contests 15 finalists. The city, which sits on the north shore of Lake Superior, was one of 385 nominated last year by readers across the country.
More than 100,000 votes were collected in a five week period, with polls closing on March 4. A town must have a population under 10,000 in order to be nominated for the award.
Perrigo said riverfront projects such as the recently completed lighting of the Second Street bridge and expansion of Veteran's Memorial Park, among other work, has generated enthusiasm and momentum among residents of Allegan.
"It's an exciting time to live in Allegan," Perrigo said.
Alex Mitchell covers county government and taxes for the Kalamazoo Gazette. Email him at amitche5@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter.