Board approves emerging-developer grants for 8 townhomes on Powers and 100%-accessible mixed-use building on Burton

The Brownfields Redevelopment Authority approved two emerging-developer grants aimed at supporting new small-scale housing projects.

The first grant, not to exceed $182,008.10, supports a project at 800/764 Powers NW to convert two vacant lots into two buildings containing a total of eight townhomes. Mackenzie Miller, staff member, said two of the units will be restricted to households at 80% of area median income with the remainder targeted below 100% AMI for Kent County. Miller said the grant will cover pre-construction work including schematic design, architectural services, civil/structural/mechanical/geotechnical consulting and survey; the developer anticipated returning for additional brownfield support during construction.

Developer Adam Regalski, who identified himself as the site’s purchaser and a neighborhood resident, described scaling the project from earlier plans, reducing density from 10 to 8 units, and designing true townhomes with individual garages and front doors. Regalski described community engagement and said the team rebuilt after the unexpected passing of his previous architect.

The second grant, not to exceed $190,000, will support The Heights on Burton, a proposed four-story mixed-use building led by developer Gabriel Grant. Staff said the project will be Energy Star certified and designed for 100% universal accessibility, with a target of roughly 20 apartments at about 80% AMI and ground-floor commercial space. In a pre-recorded statement played for the board, Gabriel Grant said, “This will be a historic moment for Grand Rapids as Grand Rapids' first 100 percent accessible and inclusive mixed use building.” Staff noted the project expects total investment between $4.5 million and $6 million and will pursue housing TIF and MEDC facade and CRP supports.

Board members praised the projects and approved both grant agreements by voice vote.