Michigan’s Revitalization Efforts Boost Housing and Community Spaces
LANSING, Mich.: Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled plans for two significant redevelopment projects in Michigan, set to transform vacant properties in Hastings and Coldwater. These initiatives, under the bipartisan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program, aim to introduce 140 new housing units and vibrant community spaces. The combined investments reach over $34.8 million, promising an economic uplift for local communities.
Governor Whitmer highlighted the broader vision: “Across Michigan, we are building affordable housing, revitalizing communities, and helping more families ‘make it’ in Michigan. These new projects in Hastings and Coldwater will create good-paying jobs, activate vacant properties, enable business creation and talent attraction, and support vibrant, bustling downtowns. I’m proud of the progress we have made across Michigan to make our cities and towns better places to live, work, and play. We’re just getting started. Let’s keep working together to make a difference.”
Echoing this sentiment, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II remarked, “Michigan communities are incredible places to live, work, and play. Our RAP program has made a difference in 234 communities across Michigan since we launched it in 2022, and today’s announcements build on the progress we’ve made to help more people in more communities ‘make it’ in our state.”
Michele Wildman, the MEDC’s Senior Vice President of Community Planning and Development, emphasized the strategic alignment: “On behalf of the MEDC, we are pleased to work with communities across Michigan and invest in their resilience through the RAP program as part of our placemaking efforts in support of the state’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy.”
Downtown Hastings Revitalization
In downtown Hastings, a brownfield site is set to be transformed into a three-story building featuring 135 rental units and a community arts center spanning over 15,000 square feet. This development, supported by $921,510 in RAP funding, is expected to generate over $33.5 million in investments. The project, led by 420 E. Mills, LLC, a subsidiary of CopperRock Construction, aims to enhance the downtown’s walkability and stimulate economic activity.
CopperRock Construction has been praised for their dedication, as noted by Hastings’ Mayor David J. Tossava: “At the City of Hastings, we are very thankful to CopperRock Construction for their major commitment, and to the MEDC for providing the grant that will help get the housing project done.”
State Representative Gina Johnsen also emphasized the local benefits: “By transforming underutilized property into new housing and community space, this project will help strengthen the local economy and enhance the quality of life for residents.”
Coldwater’s Historic Building Transformation
In Coldwater, a historic building at 22 West Pearl Street, previously damaged by fire, is undergoing a makeover to become a mixed-use space with five apartments and commercial areas. This project, supported by a $605,636 RAP grant, represents a $1.24 million investment. Developers Grace and Noah Roberts of GNR Rentals & Real Estate, LLC are at the helm, marking their first foray into commercial development.
City Manager Keith Baker commented on the significance: “The revitalization of 22 W. Pearl Street marks another positive step forward in the improvement of downtown Coldwater by bringing much-needed housing to the district while supporting a locally rooted business that cares about our community’s success.”
State Representative Jennifer Wortz added, “This redevelopment of a building in the downtown district that can provide additional housing and business space is a win-win. It’s always great when we can take something old and find a new purpose and preserve a building that would otherwise sit in disrepair.”
Launched in 2022, the RAP program has successfully supported 234 projects, bolstering community development across Michigan.
Read More Here
