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

Governor Whitmer Announces Bipartisan RAP Grants for Critical Housing Projects

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced today that two redevelopment projects in Grand Rapids and Saline will receive support from the bipartisan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program, creating new opportunities for housing and commercial space in West Michigan.

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

Grand Rapids Boston Square Project

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 F3 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 and site conditions. This brings a total anticipated capital investment of $25,537,050. The City of Grand Rapids is also supporting this phase of the project with a $400,000 HOME grant.

BSQ Together is a development entity of Brinshore Development, a private firm specializing in the development of affordable and mixed-income housing. The company has been in operation since 1994 and is one of the nation's largest and most successful housing development firms in the affordable housing market.

Amplify GR, which was founded in 2018, invests in securing economic pathways for residents of designated neighborhoods in Grand Rapids. The organization utilizes a holistic approach to community partnership and revitalization.

"The F3 project reflects the kind of catalytic development that can transform neighborhoods," said Governor Whitmer. "Our population is growing, and we've been ranked a top state for opportunity and doing business. Programs like RAP help us build on this progress, attract and retain talented workers, lower costs, build housing, and enrich our communities."

Saline Commercial and Residential Development

Two parcels in Downtown Saline will be revitalized into four residential units, commercial space, and green space. This project will complement the Grand Rapids development by providing additional housing and commercial opportunities in another key West Michigan community.

RAP Program Details

The RAP program provides access to gap financing for place-based infrastructure development and real estate rehabilitation and development. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) administers the program as part of the state's "Make It in Michigan" economic development strategy.

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

Broader Context

This announcement comes as Michigan continues to invest in housing development across the state. The RAP program has been a bipartisan effort to address housing needs in communities throughout West Michigan.

The Boston Square Together Project represents a neighborhood-informed approach to redevelopment, involving residents in the planning process to ensure the project meets community needs. This collaborative model has been successful in other neighborhoods across the region.

Impact on West Michigan

The $33 million investment represents significant support for West Michigan communities dealing with housing affordability and development challenges. The Grand Rapids project alone will create 45 new housing units, addressing the critical need for affordable and mixed-income housing in the area.

The commercial space created will provide opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small businesses to establish themselves in the growing Boston Square neighborhood. The 9,410 square feet of commercial space will allow for retail, professional services, and community-oriented businesses.

Looking Ahead

Governor Whitmer emphasized that the state's growing population and business-friendly environment require continued investment in housing and community infrastructure. The RAP program exemplifies the state's commitment to supporting communities as they grow and develop.

"This is about getting things done for our state," Governor Whitmer said. "Let's keep working together to get things done for our state."

The projects in Grand Rapids and Saline demonstrate how bipartisan programs like RAP can deliver real results for West Michigan communities facing housing and development challenges.