Battle Creek Times

A grant from the Michigan Community Revitalization Program worth nearly $1 million will go toward Brick Street Lofts, for renovating three blighted buildings in Albion, resulting in eight new residential dwelling units, improved commercial space and a reconstructed exterior.

State Sen. John Bizon (R-Battle Creek) told the Michigan GOP that this investment will benefit the entire community. 

"This money is going to help not only Brick Street Lofts, but the city of Albion as well," Bizon said. "I can't wait to see the final product."

That final product is projected to come with a capital investment of $3 million and is expected to generate new businesses in Albion, as well as retain the existing ones. 

The Brick Street Lofts will also receive $217,388 in addition to $931,534 from a state tax capture. The Albion Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will use those funds to remedy brownfield conditions at the building site. 

Local funding will support the revitalization, too. A portion of the Brownfield Act 381 Work Plan will release approximately 62% of the original Act 381 request, coming to $365,812. 

The Revitalization Program serves to benefit people interested in improving historical, neighborhood or blighted properties that would benefit the community if renovated. The program can fund improvement measures such as construction and demolition, machinery and equipment, or architecture and project fees. 

Applicants to the fund are considered on a variety of factors, including a basis of financial need, projected creation of jobs from the property revitalization and importance of the project to the community. 

The Michigan Strategic Fund appropriates general funds to support the Michigan Business Development Program and Michigan Community Revitalization Program, which are subcategories of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Business Attraction and Economic Gardening programs. 

Community members interested in applying to the revitalization program should contact their local economic development committee or municipal government.