Sandy K. Baruah President and Chief Executive Officer at Detroit Regional Chamber | LinkedIn
Sandy K. Baruah President and Chief Executive Officer at Detroit Regional Chamber | LinkedIn
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced new redevelopment projects in Detroit's North End and downtown Alma, Michigan. Supported by the Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program, these projects aim to rehabilitate vacant buildings into residential units and commercial spaces. The initiative will create 19 residential units with a total capital investment of over $6.2 million.
The RAP program offers gap financing for infrastructure development, real estate rehabilitation, and public space improvements. Governor Whitmer stated, “Today’s projects in Detroit and Alma will revitalize abandoned buildings into new housing and space for small businesses.”
In Detroit's North End, a century-old building at 9301 Oakland Avenue will be transformed into 10 residential units and 5,200 square feet of commercial space. This project is backed by $507,713 in RAP funding with an overall investment of $3,202,007. Developer Stafford House, Inc., led by Lendon Crosby, has been active in community rehabilitation efforts.
“This development will eliminate neighborhood blight and address the shortage of affordable housing,” said Crosby. Kaci Jackson from the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation emphasized their commitment to affordability: “When developers commit to true affordability, we work to identify every available financing tool to support their vision.”
In Alma, the redevelopment at 311 E. Superior Street will create nine new housing units with a total investment exceeding $3 million. Supported by a $1,162,000 RAP grant, this project includes façade updates and restoration within a historic district.
State Representative Jerry Neyer remarked on the project's impact: “This grant is a great opportunity to help provide much-needed housing.” Ryan Smith from Gemini Capital Management expressed excitement about enhancing Alma's downtown vibrancy through this project.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) plays a significant role in supporting these initiatives as part of its 'Make It in Michigan' strategy aimed at fostering economic growth across the state.
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