Michigan Embraces Redevelopment with Key Projects in Flint and Montrose
LANSING, Mich. – In a bid to transform vacant spaces into thriving community hubs, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled two significant redevelopment initiatives funded by the Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program and the Build MI Community (BMC) Grant initiative. These projects, set in Genesee County, aim to create new housing and commercial opportunities while boosting local economies. A historic building in Flint is slated to become a restaurant, and a vacant property in Montrose will be converted into residential and commercial spaces. Together, these efforts will contribute over $2.9 million in capital investment to Michigan, revitalizing underutilized areas and enhancing community life.
The RAP program is designed to support infrastructure and real estate development through gap financing, while the BMC initiative focuses on transforming vacant spaces into vibrant community assets, especially for developers with limited experience in real estate. Governor Whitmer emphasized, “Support for these projects in Genesee County underscores our ‘Make it in Michigan’ strategy that invests in people, revitalizes places, and wins projects to grow Michigan’s economy.”
Flint’s Historic Transformation
In Flint, a historic building at 703 S. Grand Traverse Street will be transformed into the Sit Down Taproom & Purveyor, a restaurant recalling the 1936-37 Flint Sit Down Strike. This project, supported by a $250,000 BMC grant and local tax abatement valued at $100,000, represents a total investment of $834,500. The development is led by Feuersteyn Enterprises, LLC, marking their first foray into such projects.
Emily Feuerherm, one of the developers, stated, “We are so grateful for the support of the MEDC who is investing in and celebrating Flint’s storied history through the development of this property.” The initiative has also drawn praise from Tyler Rossmaessler, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, who acknowledged the project’s role in honoring Flint’s history and contributing to community vibrancy.
Montrose’s Mixed-Use Development
In Montrose, another vacant building will be converted into a mixed-use property, featuring five new apartments and over 2,500 square feet of commercial space. This project, expected to generate $2,080,916 in investment, benefits from a $944,000 RAP grant and additional support through Brownfield Tax Increment Financing.
Developer Dean Yeotis of Ramby LLC, in collaboration with Revitalize, LLC and Triterra Environmental Consultants, is spearheading this initiative. Yeotis highlighted the significance of the project, saying, “Ramby, LLC will offer high-quality, affordable housing along with two good-sized commercial spaces in a prime downtown Montrose location.” City Manager Joe Karlichek expressed gratitude for the project’s potential to boost jobs and improve housing affordability in Montrose.
Rossmaessler also commented on the broader impact, stating, “This project is a great example of state and local partnership being put to use in impactful ways. The project will not only be a point of pride for our community, but also add to our local housing stock.” With these developments, Michigan continues to focus on enriching its communities through strategic investments and partnerships.
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