Grand Rapids Brownfield authority approves multiple redevelopment plans and emerging-developer grants

The Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority voted to approve a series of brownfield plan amendments, reimbursement requests and emerging-developer grants to support housing and commercial redevelopment across the city.

The authority approved an amendment to support the "M Village" redevelopment proposed by Messiah Baptist Church at the Eastern/Burton corridor. Staff said phase one will demolish existing structures and build 10 duplexes (20 for-sale units). A later phase could add a multifamily building with up to 51 apartments; that second phase would require a separate request for pilot and LIHTC/LITEC-type support. The packet estimated total project costs at $7.8 million, roughly $6.0 million in construction, and requested about $5.2 million in brownfield-eligible reimbursements for site preparation, public infrastructure and “development loss.” The authority approved the plan amendment and the reimbursement structure, which staff said would provide developer reimbursement over 25 years while the plan remains in place for 30 years. Aaron Yonker, representing the development team, described the church’s long-term commitment to the site: "the church...really set it upon themselves a couple years ago to try to make a difference in housing in our community," he said.

The authority also approved a brownfield plan amendment and a $513,450 reimbursement cap plus a requested $200,000 emerging-developer grant to support the West Michigan…