The communities of Niles and Allegan are two of 14 projects statewide that have earned a share of nearly $210,000 in grants from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, or MSHDA, for Placemaking in their jurisdictions. Each of the cities here in Michigan's Great Southwest will receive $15,000 for their projects to help bolster future development.
For Niles, the $15,000 Placemaking Grant to be used for a consultant to assist with the creation of site plans for the re-development of the former public safety facility into a mixed-use project.
For Allegan, the $15,000 grant will be used to hire an economic development specialist to work in the recruitment of businesses for three downtown properties, to work with a real estate developer to recruit businesses and investments into the downtown area, and to recruit property owners to participate in MSHDA affordable housing programs that result in the development of the upper floors in downtown Allegan buildings.
Kevin Elsenheimer is Executive Director of MSHDA. He tells us, “MSHDA is proud to support projects that have the potential to breathe new life into communities.” He adds, “Across the state, placemaking initiatives have proven instrumental in helping create vibrant places where people want to live, work and play.”
Following multiple requests for proposals, 14 statewide projects will receive $209,175 in these placemaking grants.
State Senator John Proos voiced support for Niles, saying, “I am proud of the work that is being done throughout Southwest Michigan to enhance and improve our communities in so many ways.” He adds, “With this grant, we will be able to help many of our neighbors in the City of Niles afford suitable housing and a better future for their families.”
State Senator Tonya Schuitmaker of Lawton says, "The City of Allegan is working diligently to revitalize the downtown community, and this grant will allow the city to continue their work to become a thriving, vibrant place to live, work, and raise a family."
Newly elected State Representative Mary Whiteford of Casco Township called the Allegan grant, "Truly wonderful news for our community," adding, "It's fantastic that the City Council and Manager have taken a pro-active approach to economic development from the Riverfront improvements to this project. Downtown Allegan is a unique and friendly place, rich in history and encompasses a small-town atmosphere that many would love to call their home. This grant will make that possible."
Grant submissions were required to advance MSHDA’s mission of increasing and preserving decent, affordable housing and engaging in economic development activities to revitalize communities. Applicants also had to demonstrate capacity to administer the proposed grant and projects without technical assistance, as well as bring a cash match from a local source to the table.
