Lansing Sun

Eight communities in the state will receive $160,000 in grants to revitalize downtown endeavors, according to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

A news release from the governor’s office stated that the Main Street Vibrancy Grant Program would give $20,000 for Main Street communities to reinvigorate their downtown communities that could include marketing, infrastructure and physical enhancements in order to cultivate more dynamic communities.

“Vibrant downtown areas are critical to creating jobs, attracting new investments, and helping local businesses build a foundation for long-term success in Michigan,” Whitmer said. “These grants will help communities in both peninsulas invest in their downtowns, developing unique places where people want to live, visit, work, and play. Small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy, and we must continue working together to help them thrive. Over the last couple of years, entrepreneurship has flourished in Michigan, with over 430,000 new businesses formed since January 2019. Together, we will continue investing in small businesses and helping towns and cities of all sizes build thriving downtowns.”

According to the governor’s office, job growth in the state has increased for 10 straight months, a total of 172,00 in one year and its unemployment rate of 4.7% has gone down for 10 months, as well.

The 2022 Main Street Vibrancy Grant winners were: Grand Haven DDA; Grosse Pointe DDA; Downtown Lansing, Inc; Lapeer DDA; Niles DDA; Otsego DDA; Saline Main Street and Sault Ste. Marie DDA, according to the news release.

“The support of MEDC and the Vibrancy Grant program will allow us to transform a historic park in our downtown district, bringing added light and life in all seasons,” Downtown Lansing Inc. Executive Director Cathleen Edgerly said. “The support of this project brings a strong focus on creating opportunities for start-ups, creating spaces and experiences for our residents, and seeing Downtown Lansing residents and businesses through this transitional period.”