The developers behind a new 144-unit apartment complex being proposed for St. Joseph Township are optimistic the project will receive community support as it seeks permission to get underway.
We reported this week Dutch Developers out of Grandville are planning six three-story buildings on property currently owned by the Blue Roof Church at 3150 Niles Road. Shane Enders is a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker who’s working on the property sale. He tells us the developers are envisioning the new Railview Lofts as being a place for young professionals moving into the area to work for entities like Corewell or the Cook plant.
Enders says the area of the development would be perfect for those on the go.
“I think just the access right off I-94,” Enders said. “Anybody, if the professional is traveling from Kalamazoo to Chicago, anything between New Buffalo area. You’re just right off the highway there, which is very convenient. You’re close to town for business and shops and restaurants, things of that nature.”
The complex would also include a fitness center and a pickleball court. The apartments would be one and two bedroom units, renting for around $1,700-$1.,800 per month for a one-bedroom and $2,000 per month for a two-bedroom.
Enders says the development comes as Berrien County desperately needs new housing.
“I’ve not heard one thing negative. Everything’s been very, very positive. I feel like between this development and what’s trying to go on across the street at the Nye’s property, I think it’s going to be just going to change the whole dynamic of that area. A lot more energy and housing and potential restaurants and sounds like a gas station or two.”
The Blue Roof Church, or the First Assembly of God, owns the 13-acre property adjacent to the church, having purchased the parcel in the 90s. Enders says the apartment developers are seeking to purchase 11 acres of that site for this project.
The St. Joseph Township Board of Trustees will consider a special use permit for the development at its meeting on June 1. Enders isn’t sure if the developers will be seeking any special tax incentives for the project.
