Developer outlines preliminary plan for 42-unit project at 36 State Street; council pauses for legal review

MIDDLEVILLE — A developer told the Village Council on Aug. 12 that it is pursuing a preliminary plan to develop the village-owned lot at 36 State Street into a multi-family project of about 42 units.

Greg Taylor of Copper Rock Construction & Development described recent local experience in Hastings and said the firm expects a two-building apartment project totaling about 42,000 square feet and approximately 42 units, mixing one- and two-bedroom apartments. "About 42 units is what we're projecting which would have adequate parking," Taylor said, adding that the firm had used CPACE financing on a nearby project and would consider similar financing here.

Village staff and legal counsel said the draft purchase-and-sale agreement remains under negotiation and that legal review is incomplete. The village attorney told the council there was no recommendation for action at the meeting and that staff and counsel expect to return with a finalized recommendation at a forthcoming meeting.

Why it matters: The parcel sits near Main Street and riverfront property and the plan would add downtown housing inventory. Taylor said the Hastings project experience provided lessons for environmental review, easements and MEDC engagement; he estimated roughly 15 months from groundbreaking to completion after approvals.

What’s next: The village attorney and staff will continue negotiating contract language and address outstanding legal and zoning issues; council members asked technical questions about parking, zoning changes and the site’s nonconforming status. No formal vote or contract approval occurred on Aug. 12.