Michigan RAP Program Delivers $33 Million in Housing and Commercial Development to Grand Rapids and Saline

Governor Whitmer Announces Revitalization Projects in Boston Square and Downtown Saline

LANSING — Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two major redevelopment projects receiving support from the bipartisan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program on March 31, creating new opportunities for housing and commercial space in Grand Rapids and Saline.

The projects will generate a total capital investment of over $33 million in the state while activating vacant properties and increasing community vibrancy.

Boston Square Project in Grand Rapids

In the City of Grand Rapids, approximately 1.3 acres in the Boston Square neighborhood will be redeveloped into a four-story, mixed-use building. The project will create 45 new apartments along with 9,410 square feet of commercial space and 9,048 square feet of public space.

The project is part of the Boston Square Together Project, a neighbor-informed, comprehensive redevelopment of 10 acres in the neighborhood that aims to increase housing, commercial space for entrepreneurs, and community amenities.

The project will be supported by a $1.3 million RAP grant to assist with costs associated with construction costs and site conditions. This brings a total anticipated capital investment of $25,537,050.

The City of Grand Rapids is supporting this phase of the project with a $400,000 HOME grant.

BSQ Together, LLC, is the development entity for this project. It is a development entity of Brinshore Development, LLC, a private firm specializing in the development of affordable and mixed-income housing. Brinshore is one of the nation's largest and most successful housing development firms in the affordable housing market.

Founded in 2018, Amplify GR invests in securing economic pathways for residents of designated neighborhoods in Grand Rapids, resulting in real opportunities to participate in and benefit from neighborhood growth. Amplify GR utilizes a holistic approach to community partnership and revitalization.

"The F3 project reflects the kind of catalytic transformation we need in Boston Square," said a representative for the project.

Downtown Saline Revitalization

In Saline, the project will revitalize a three-story historic building and adjacent parcel at Murphy's Crossing into a mixed-use development. The renovation will feature four two-story residential apartments and a renovated walkout lower level for commercial use.

Approximately 10,000 square feet of vacant land will be converted into public space with seating, lighting, trees, and other amenities. There will also be a new speakeasy bar built into the basement of the new building.

Saline Mayor Brian Marl said the project will be used for a variety of events like live music, children's activities, Summerfest, Oktoberfest and other community events. There will also be seating options, swinging benches, a play area and an outdoor stage and shade structure in the public space.

Residents have expressed excitement about the green space in the downtown area, and more housing options for a growing city.

"Saline is at an important inflection point," Marl said. "This project will help us become the kind of downtown that people want to visit and live in."

RAP Program Impact

The Saline project will receive a $1.5 million RAP grant and will bring a total capital investment of $7,495,703. The City of Saline has committed $500,000 toward the development of the adjacent outdoor public space.

Phoenix South, L.C. is developing the Saline project. This marks the first development for the development firm, though it has experience redeveloping historic structures through Praxis Properties, including the Merchant Square building in Saline.

"The project has been a possibility only with the help of the MEDC, who has been an excellent partner throughout this process, along with the City, City Council, and community support," said Tyler Kinley, manager for Phoenix South.

Governor's Comments

"Our population is growing, and we've been ranked a top state for opportunity and doing business," Governor Whitmer said.

"Programs like RAP help us build on this progress, attract and retain talented workers, lower costs, build housing, and enrich our communities. Let's keep working together to get things done for our state."

The RAP program provides access to gap financing for place-based infrastructure development and real estate rehabilitation and development.

"The MEDC is proud to support the growth and resilience of communities like Grand Rapids and Saline as part of the state's 'Make It in Michigan' economic development strategy," said Michele Wildman, SVP of Community Planning and Development Readiness for the MEDC.

"These projects will add critical housing and residential amenities, contributing to the vibrancy and economic activity in their communities."

Construction Timeline

Construction on both projects is expected to begin in 2026 and be finalized by 2027. The Saline project will likely experience some disruption to surrounding businesses like Carrigan's Cafe, Mac's Seafood Company and Brecon Grille during construction, according to city officials.

But Mayor Marl said local business owners are excited about the renovations to the downtown space.

"Saline City Manager Dan Swallow said the project represents a successful public-private partnership."

"The Uphaus Square Project will significantly enhance the visitor experience in Downtown Saline by creating a dynamic space for events and gatherings or just to spend some time and relax," Swallow said.

What This Means for West Michigan

These RAP program investments represent the state's commitment to supporting housing and commercial development in West Michigan communities. The projects will create much-needed housing units while also activating vacant properties that have been sitting empty for years.

The Boston Square project in Grand Rapids will add 45 apartments to a neighborhood that has been undergoing comprehensive redevelopment. The Saline project will bring new housing and commercial space to a downtown area that has been seeking revitalization for over two decades.

Both projects demonstrate how state funding programs can help catalyze private investment and create lasting improvements to communities throughout West Michigan.