Madison Heights Earns Prestigious Redevelopment Ready Certification
The City of Madison Heights has reached a significant milestone in its development journey by receiving the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) certification from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). This accolade underscores the city’s efforts to prepare its infrastructure and planning processes to attract private investments.
Madison Heights now stands among 88 Michigan communities recognized for their readiness in planning and zoning, joining the ranks of locales that have effectively eliminated traditional development barriers. This certification is a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to investment and growth. For a detailed list of Redevelopment Ready Communities, visit www.miplace.org/programs/redevelopment-ready-communities/.
Michele Wildman, MEDC’s Senior Vice President of Community Planning & Development Readiness, emphasized the organization’s mission, stating, “Our mission at MEDC is to support Michigan’s strong economic momentum and empower communities to establish a strong planning, zoning and economic development foundation.” She expressed confidence in Madison Heights’ capability to enhance resident life quality and implement its visionary plans.
The rigorous process to achieve RRC certification involved a comprehensive assessment of Madison Heights’ current community and economic development practices against established RRC standards. This evaluation ensures that the city is transparent, predictable, and efficient in its approach to development. Such certification signifies that Madison Heights has streamlined its processes to attract potential investors.
Mayor Corey Haines highlighted the city’s openness to new opportunities, noting, “Recognition as a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community signals that Madison Heights is open for opportunity.” He acknowledged the city’s commitment to growth and investment readiness, praising the staff’s dedication and collaborative efforts to reach this milestone.
City Manager Melissa Marsh also lauded the team’s efforts, stating, “This designation is the result of tremendous work by our staff and strong collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.” She outlined the extensive updates to zoning ordinances and economic development plans that were essential to achieving this certification.
As part of this certification, Madison Heights will benefit from new tools, ongoing support, and technical assistance to meet its community development objectives. With a five-year active certification, the city will undergo annual reviews to ensure continued adherence to best practices.
Community & Economic Development Director Giles Tucker expressed the significance of the certification, saying, “Becoming Redevelopment Ready certified for us means that we have a clearer, development-friendly Zoning Ordinance, better plans that reflect the vision of our residents, and a more predictable development process.” This recognition is set to enhance development quality and align projects with the community’s long-term vision.
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
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