Detroit City Wire

Senator Joseph Bellino has expressed his approval for a state grant that will facilitate significant improvements to St. Mary’s Park in Monroe. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has allocated a $978,425 Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) grant to the city for this purpose.

"This funding is about making a long-term investment in Monroe to provide more outdoor recreation opportunities for local children and improve the quality of life for everyone in the region," stated Bellino, R-Monroe. "By helping our communities thrive, we are helping them attract new business investment, good jobs and in-demand talent."

Monroe is among 27 statewide applicants to receive RAP grants this week. These grants are intended to support approximately 64 projects across 48 communities, with an overall investment exceeding $120 million in public spaces.

The RAP program aims to provide gap financing for various development initiatives including place-based infrastructure development, real estate rehabilitation, and public space enhancements. Eligible participants include individuals or entities focused on rehabilitating vacant or underutilized structures and developing permanent infrastructure related to traditional downtowns, social zones, outdoor dining areas, and public spaces.