LANSING, Mich. – A significant boost for community development has been announced by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), as six cities are set to receive a total of $23.9 million in grants through the Michigan Talent Partnership (MTP) Program. The funding is aimed at transforming public spaces in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houghton, Lansing, and Mt. Pleasant, enhancing their appeal to talent and business opportunities.
Managed by the MEDC and backed by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), the MTP Program is set to enhance urban density, walkability, and vibrancy. The projects funded include enhancements like a farmer’s market pavilion, streetscape improvements, and business incubation spaces.
“The Michigan Talent Partnership Program is a shining example of how the MEDC’s placemaking efforts contribute to the vibrancy and economic prosperity of our communities across the state,” said the MEDC’s SVP of Community Planning and Development Readiness Michele Wildman. “These grants will help improve the quality of life for residents of Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houghton, Lansing, and Mt. Pleasant, while also attracting new talent and increased activity.”
“Michigan’s future depends on strong communities and a growing population,” added Jonathan Smith, senior chief deputy director for LEO. “The Michigan Talent Partnership is about giving local leaders the tools to attract people, create opportunity, and build places where young people want to put down roots. When we invest in communities, we invest in Michigan’s long-term growth.”
Michigan Talent Partnership Program Awardees
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Applicant
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Funding Granted
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Project Details
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Ann Arbor
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$4,300,000
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Cultivate Midtown: Supports the 350 Transit Hub with streetscape enhancements, public art, and the revitalization of the Blake Transit Center.
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Detroit
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$4,346,474
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Connecting Campus and Community: The Livernois Streetscape Extension will link McNichols and the Avenue of Fashion corridors.
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Grand Rapids
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$4,300,000
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Monroe North: Aims to remove outdated infrastructure and support multi-modal transportation and vibrant greenspaces.
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Houghton
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$3,855,000
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North Landing – A Waterfront Talent District: Focuses on developing a business and creative incubator space and enhancing cultural connections.
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Lansing
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$4,350,000
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REO Town – Flowing with Innovation: Includes various neighborhood improvements, multimodal transportation updates, and business support.
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Mt. Pleasant
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$2,790,000
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The Central Market and Main District: Aims to modernize the Farmer’s Market Pavilion, creating a year-round community hub.
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Total
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$23,941,474
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Local Support
Ann Arbor:
Mayor Christopher Taylor expressed gratitude, stating, “We are grateful to the State of Michigan for this investment in Ann Arbor and for recognizing the connection between talent, place, and opportunity.”
Detroit:
State Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit) commented on the impact of the Livernois Streetscape Extension, highlighting its potential to strengthen local neighborhoods.
Grand Rapids:
City Manager Mark Washington emphasized that the grant would accelerate Grand Rapids’ development, while Sarah Rainero, the economic development director, noted the initiative’s potential to create a thriving business ecosystem.
Houghton:
Rep. Greg Markkanen praised the local leadership for securing the funding, and Eric Waara, city manager, expressed excitement over the project’s potential to enhance public spaces in Houghton.
Lansing:
State Senator Sarah Anthony, Senate Appropriations Chairwoman, highlighted the project’s alignment with the goal of creating vibrant communities, with Mayor Andy Schor emphasizing the importance of growing all parts of Lansing.
Mt. Pleasant:
The City of Mt. Pleasant staff expressed excitement over the grant’s potential to transform the community, while Rep. Jerry Neyer (District 92) noted the investment’s impact on local agriculture and business opportunities.
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