LANSING, Mich. – In a bid to bolster community vibrancy and economic growth, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the launch of two significant redevelopment projects in Benton Harbor and Midland. Supported by the bipartisan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program, these projects aim to transform vacant properties into thriving residential and commercial spaces, driving a combined capital investment exceeding $8.5 million.
Governor Whitmer expressed optimism about the potential of these projects to enhance Michigan’s appeal as a business hub. “Michigan is open for business and on the move, and these new placemaking projects will revitalize buildings in Benton Harbor and Midland, making both communities more vibrant places to live,” said Governor Whitmer. “Programs like RAP help us attract and retain talented workers, lower costs, enable business creation and attraction, and make Michigan the best place to live, work, and play. Let’s keep working together to help more families ‘make it’ in Michigan.”
Michele Wildman, the MEDC’s SVP of Community Planning and Development Readiness, highlighted the role of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) in supporting these community-focused initiatives. “By investing in Michigan’s communities, the MEDC is supporting their growth and resilience as part of the state’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy,” she stated.
The RAP program is designed to bridge financial gaps for infrastructure and real estate projects that promise to rejuvenate local areas. In Benton Harbor, the initiative will focus on three adjacent buildings, partially vacant, to develop eight apartments on the upper floors, revamped commercial space on the ground level, and a construction lab in the basement.
Abonmarche Consultants, an engineering and architecture firm rooted in Benton Harbor, will spearhead this development with the aid of a $1.5 million RAP grant. The project is projected to attract a total capital investment of $4,320,017. The City of Benton Harbor is set to contribute approximately $1,136,000 through a Housing Tax Increment Financing Plan over the next 25 years.
Daryl Knip, president and CEO of Abonmarche, expressed gratitude towards the MEDC and local authorities, saying, “Abonmarche extends its sincere appreciation to the MEDC and the City of Benton Harbor for their partnership and support throughout this redevelopment effort.”
Meanwhile, in Midland, the historic Odd Fellows Building is slated for transformation into a mixed-use complex comprising three commercial outlets and five new apartments. This development aims to rejuvenate the downtown area by adding residential density and economic activity.
Supported by a $1,424,213 RAP grant, the Midland project is expected to gather a total capital outlay of $4,217,080. The MEDC will further bolster the initiative with an Act 381 Work Plan and Brownfield Tax Increment Financing valued at $295,817. Monarch Associates, LLC, and 116 Rodd LLC, led by Dan Dimitroff, are the development entities behind this endeavor.
Dan Dimitroff acknowledged the collaborative effort involved, stating, “We are so grateful to work with the MEDC on this project. The team from MEDC has been professional and intentional throughout the process. These projects do not happen without full buy-in from the city and the state.”
Midland’s local authorities are also backing the project with a tax abatement under the Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) worth approximately $167,306. The City of Midland Brownfield Redevelopment Authority has approved local tax capture estimated at $303,076 to be reimbursed over 27 years.
Mayor Maureen Donker emphasized the historic significance of the Odd Fellows Building, stating, “The Odd Fellows Building has been part of Midland’s story for 150 years, and this project ensures it remains part of our story for generations to come.”
Since its inception in 2022, the Revitalization and Placemaking program has facilitated 258 projects across Michigan, aiming to foster sustainable community development.
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