The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) meeting held on July 23, 2025, in Grand Rapids focused on a significant housing development project aimed at addressing local housing needs. The project will consist of 168 residential units, with a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, measuring approximately 620 and 950 square feet, respectively.

Key details revealed during the meeting include that 82 of the units will be designated for households earning at or below 95 to 100% of the area median income. The total project cost is estimated at $36.4 million, with $28 million allocated for hard construction costs. The project is also pursuing a Brownfield housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) plan, which is projected to cover about $14.8 million in eligible costs.

The development team highlighted their commitment to inclusion, aiming for 15% participation in the construction costs, which translates to approximately $4.2 million. Additionally, the project is expected to maintain affordability for the designated income-qualified units for a period of 20 years. The potential rent loss over the 25-year plan is estimated at $12.1 million, or about $148,000 per unit.

Construction is anticipated to commence in 2025, with a projected completion date in December of the same year. The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from attendees, allowing for further engagement on the project’s details and implications for the community. This development is seen as a crucial step in enhancing housing availability and affordability in the Grand Rapids area.