{"id":8715,"date":"2024-03-06T14:14:27","date_gmt":"2024-03-06T14:14:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/?p=8715"},"modified":"2024-03-06T14:15:42","modified_gmt":"2024-03-06T14:15:42","slug":"gov-whitmer-announces-nine-michigan-main-street-communities-receiving-200000-in-grants-for-downtown-improvement-projects","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/2024\/03\/06\/gov-whitmer-announces-nine-michigan-main-street-communities-receiving-200000-in-grants-for-downtown-improvement-projects\/","title":{"rendered":"Gov. Whitmer\u00a0announces nine Michigan Main Street Communities receiving $200,000 in grants for downtown improvement projects\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"

LANSING, March 1, 2024: Governor Gretchen Whitmer\u00a0announced\u00a0that nine communities around Michigan have been awarded a total of 200,000 in grants to support downtown enhancement and improvement projects.\u00a0Communities receiving Main Street Vibrancy grants are: Cheboygan, Wayland, Lapeer, Downtown Lansing Inc., Three Rivers, Saline, Mexicantown, Grosse Pointe, and North End.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThriving, attractive downtowns are vital to creating unique places where people want to live, work, visit,\u00a0and play,\u201d said\u00a0<\/strong>Whitmer.<\/em> \u201cToday\u2019s\u00a0grants\u00a0for 9 downtowns across Michigan\u00a0will help\u00a0these\u00a0communities\u00a0grow their economies, support local small businesses, and improve quality of life. Together, we will\u00a0continue our comprehensive economic development strategy\u00a0of\u00a0investing in\u00a0people, places, and projects.\u00a0Let\u2019s\u00a0get this done\u00a0so anyone can \u2018make it\u2019 in Michigan.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Main Street Vibrancy Grant Program is intended to provide grants of $25,000\u00a0to Select or Master level Michigan Main Street communities\u00a0for projects that enhance the vibrancy and economic vitality of Michigan Main Street downtowns. Projects could include pop-up shop programs, implementation of a marketing or advertising campaign, physical improvements such as new seating, seasonal infrastructure, signage, or art, and other transformative projects that help create a sense of place and a more vibrant community.<\/p>\n

2024 Main Street Vibrancy Grant winners (see below for quotes from all winning organizations):<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Applicant Entity\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\nProject Description\u00a0<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cheboygan<\/td>\nFestival Square Improvements \u2013 new tables and umbrellas, new flower and tree planters, custom banner installation, and installation of artwork<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Wayland<\/td>\nHometown Hype \u2013 New welcome sign incorporating new branding, wireless speaker system and a Downtown Hype Team<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Lapeer<\/td>\nDowntown Promotion\/Increasing Brand Awareness \u2013 wayfinding signage installation, decorative\u00a0banners,\u00a0 community\u00a0mural and Hype Hound program\u00a0launch<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Downtown Lansing, Inc.<\/td>\n <\/p>\n

Small Business Mini-Makeovers in four businesses downtown (Nubian, Sylvia\u2019s\u00a0Sudsery, Sweet Encounter Bakery and Caf\u00e9, Summit Comics and Games)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

Three Rivers<\/td>\nHoliday lighting, Christmas\u00a0Tree\u00a0and other holiday decorations<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Saline<\/td>\nHoliday lighting and programming for live entertainment during Cocoa Crawl Event Weekend<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Mexicantown<\/td>\nMarketing and Brand Awareness Campaign \u2013\u00a0Locable\u00a0marketing platform and Mexicantown Main Street marketing campaign, banner installation, branded trash bins, and tourist attraction resources (brochures,\u00a0maps\u00a0and digital content)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Grosse Pointe<\/td>\nGet to the Pointes – placemaking project with public space activation in three plazas (new seating, refurbished chess tables and games, new planters); public art installations; signage for the Loop social district, and new\u00a0banners<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
North End<\/td>\nLight Up Main Street \u2013 winter season lighting of East Grand Boulevard and holiday shopping event<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re pleased to support these communities, who have all worked diligently to enhance the sense of place and vibrancy in their downtowns, engage residents and businesses, and drive economic growth,\u201d said\u00a0<\/strong>Michelle Parkkonen, Managing Director of Technical Assistance Programs at the MEDC.<\/em> \u201cToday\u2019s Vibrancy grants reflect our ongoing efforts to create a holistic, people-first approach to economic development here in\u00a0Michigan, and\u00a0will help further strengthen the downtowns and commercial districts in these communities while also building unique places where people want to live, work, visit, and play.\u201d<\/p>\n

In May 2023,\u00a0eight Michigan communities were awarded a total of $200,000 in Main Street Vibrancy Grants<\/a>\u00a0and in\u00a0April 2022, eight communities were awarded a total of $160,000 in Main Street Vibrancy Grants<\/a>\u00a0to support downtown enhancement and improvement projects.<\/p>\n

Michigan Main Street<\/a>\u00a0supports local communities across Michigan as they implement the Main Street Four-Point Approach\u00ae, a community-driven, comprehensive strategy encouraging economic development through historic preservation in ways\u00a0appropriate for\u00a0the modern marketplace.\u00a0The program aims to create communities distinguished by a \u201csense of place.\u201d The rationale is based on a range of studies that show investing in creating a sense of place is an integral part of developing vibrant city centers and downtowns, thereby making the state economically stronger and culturally diverse.<\/p>\n

As part of the Select Level of Michigan Main Street, communities receive five years of intensive technical\u00a0assistance\u00a0from MEDC with a focus on revitalization strategies designed to attract new residents, business investments, economic\u00a0growth\u00a0and job creation to their central business districts.<\/p>\n

After communities have completed the Select Level of the program, they can\u00a0participate\u00a0in the Master Level, a two-year commitment that includes\u00a0additional\u00a0training and networking and mentoring opportunities.<\/p>\n

A total of 22 communities currently\u00a0participate\u00a0in the Michigan Main Street program at the select and master levels. To see the full list,\u00a0visit here.<\/a><\/p>\n

Over the past year, Michigan Main Street communities generated more than $17.4 million in private investment, 144 new businesses and 144 fa\u00e7ade and building improvements. For 20 years, Michigan Main Street has been a catalyst for job growth, private investment, and community engagement leading to comprehensive economic development creating more vibrant downtowns and traditional commercial districts in Michigan. From 2003 through 2023, 1,897 new businesses have been launched, with a total public investment of more than $146 million and total private investment of $424.6 million. In addition, more than 892,700 volunteer hours have been recorded by Michigan Main Street communities in revitalizing downtowns across the state.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

LOCAL QUOTES:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Downtown Lansing Inc.<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cWe are thrilled to have been awarded a Michigan Main Street Vibrancy Grant to support retailers in our downtown business district,\u201d said\u00a0Cathleen Edgerly, Executive Director of Downtown Lansing Inc.<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cAs we continue to fuel our transformation, these grant funds and the professional service assistance that comes with them will bring added energy and vibrancy to multiple storefronts downtown.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cheboygan Main Street Downtown Development Authority<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThis Main Street Vibrancy Grant will allow us to begin the process of reviving a gathering place in our downtown that has lost its appeal and purpose over time,\u201d said\u00a0Cheboygan Main Street Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Polly Schneider.<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cBy adding in colorful and accessible seating, along with softening the concrete and steel pavilion with potted trees and flowers, we will demonstrate how tactical urbanism can transform a space quickly, while giving the community back a sense of pride for this gathering space.\u201d<\/p>\n

Three Rivers Downtown Development Authority\/Main Street<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cOverall, the Winter Night in Lights Project supported by Vibrancy grant dollars will enhance our downtown district by creating a dynamic and attractive destination for residents and visitors throughout the holiday season,\u201d said\u00a0Three Rivers Downtown Development Authority\/Main Street Executive Director Cameron Mains<\/strong>. \u201cThrough strategic investments like this towards beautification, events, small businesses, and community engagement, we can transform our downtown into a thriving hub of activity, commerce, and culture for all.\u201d<\/p>\n

Downtown Wayland<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThe MEDC Vibrancy is essential for Wayland and the continued growth of our new branding and confidence,\u201d said\u00a0Downtown Wayland Executive Director Holli McPherson.<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cWithout the grant dollars, larger projects which make the biggest visual impact would not be possible for downtown Wayland. The goal of this vibrancy\u00a0project is to bring back the hometown hype with a speaker system, new welcome\u00a0sign\u00a0and a Hype program.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lapeer Main Street\/Downtown Development Authority<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThis vibrancy grant will allow the Lapeer Main Street DDA to move forward immediately with projects that could otherwise take us several years to accomplish,\u201d said\u00a0Lapeer Main Street\/Downtown Development Authority Executive Director James Alt. \u201c<\/strong>That means\u00a0we\u2019ll\u00a0be able to build on our momentum and continued excitement around the revitalization of Historic Downtown Lapeer. The wayfinding and directional signage will help direct traffic to destinations in our great downtown while. \u201cOur brand recognition and add a pop of color in the winter months. We will also be creating a local \u2018Hype Hound\u2019 program and laying the groundwork for a downtown ambassador program that will\u00a0engage, and\u00a0encourage\u00a0local residents\u00a0and their dogs to shop and support local businesses.\u201d<\/p>\n

Main Street Grosse Pointe<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cBeing awarded the MEDC\u2019s Main Street Vibrancy Grant is not only a great honor, but something that will allow Main Street Grosse Pointe to showcase the impact that grassroots community efforts can have,\u201d said\u00a0Main Street Grosse Pointe Executive Director Cindy Willcock<\/strong>.\u00a0\u201cThe \u201cGet to the Pointes\u201d placemaking initiative is a series of small projects that are purposely woven together to have\u00a0a large impact\u00a0on The Village, Downtown Grosse Pointe.\u00a0\u00a0Enhancing the plaza areas with\u00a0additional\u00a0seating options,\u00a0games\u00a0and public art, adding new Loop social district signage and street pole banners featuring our new Main Street branding will enhance walkability, provide space for residents and visitors to relax, gather and enjoy and create a sense of belonging and community pride that will be felt for years to come.\u201d<\/p>\n

Saline Main Street<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks to your generous grant, we will be able to transform our downtown into a holiday wonderland in December, without diverting the city’s focus on updating our\u00a0infrastructure,\u201d said\u00a0Saline Main Street Executive Director Mary Dettling.<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cYour support ensures that the magic of the season shines bright, bringing our city together in joy and celebration.\u201d<\/p>\n

Mexicantown<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThe allocation of the Vibrancy Grant funding for Mexicantown Main Street’s marketing platform and brand awareness campaign project signifies a pivotal investment in revitalizing our district,\u201d said\u00a0Mexicantown-Hubbard Communities Main Street Director, Southwest Detroit Business Association Vice President of Programs and Compliance Brandi Watts.<\/strong>\u00a0\u201cThese funds will allow us to implement a comprehensive marketing strategy,\u00a0leveraging\u00a0digital platforms, traditional media, and community engagement initiatives to amplify Mexicantown Main Street’s visibility and appeal. Through targeted branding efforts, we will be able to elevate awareness of the Mexicantown Main Street district,\u00a0showcasing\u00a0its unique offerings, local businesses, and cultural assets. This heightened visibility will not only attract more visitors, but also foster a sense of pride and belonging among businesses and residents,\u00a0ultimately strengthening\u00a0our community fabric. Furthermore, an enhanced marketing platform and campaign will help\u00a0cultivate a more engaging and functional corridor that encourages engagement,\u00a0ownership\u00a0and pride in what our district offers to residents and visitors.\u201d<\/p>\n

North End<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cNorth\u00a0End Main Street is so excited to have received a partial Vibrancy Grant for our district,\u201d said\u00a0Vanguard Community Development Corporation Vice President Economic Development and Main Street Manager Lisa Tucker<\/strong>. \u201cIt will be awesome\u00a0to watch this upcoming holiday winter season! Many Thanks\u00a0to the MEDC team!\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

LANSING, March 1, 2024: Governor Gretchen Whitmer\u00a0announced\u00a0that nine communities around Michigan have been awarded a total of 200,000 in grants to support downtown enhancement and improvement projects.\u00a0Communities receiving Main Street Vibrancy grants are: Cheboygan, Wayland, Lapeer, Downtown Lansing Inc., Three Rivers, Saline, Mexicantown, Grosse Pointe, and North End.\u00a0 \u201cThriving, attractive downtowns are vital to creating<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":8718,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"_rtcl_gb_attr":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"wf_post_folders":[192],"class_list":["post-8715","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-michigan"],"aioseo_notices":[],"rttpg_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"landscape":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"portraits":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"large":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"rtcl-gallery":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"rtcl-thumbnail":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop-300x240.jpg",300,240,true],"rtcl-gallery-thumbnail":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop-150x105.jpg",150,105,true],"psacp-medium":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop.jpg",300,291,false],"rpwe-thumbnail":["https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/main-streetcrop-45x45.jpg",45,45,true]},"rttpg_author":{"display_name":"LaPrensa Newspaper","author_link":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/author\/laprensa\/"},"rttpg_comment":0,"rttpg_category":"Michigan<\/a>","rttpg_excerpt":"LANSING, March 1, 2024: Governor Gretchen Whitmer\u00a0announced\u00a0that nine communities around Michigan have been awarded a total of 200,000 in grants to support downtown enhancement and improvement projects.\u00a0Communities receiving Main Street Vibrancy grants are: Cheboygan, Wayland, Lapeer, Downtown Lansing Inc., Three Rivers, Saline, Mexicantown, Grosse Pointe, and North End.\u00a0 \u201cThriving, attractive downtowns are vital to creating","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8715","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8715"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8715\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8719,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8715\/revisions\/8719"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8718"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8715"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8715"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8715"},{"taxonomy":"wf_post_folders","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/laprensanewspaper.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/wf_post_folders?post=8715"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}