Granholm Announces Federal Funding for Public Improvements in 35 Michigan Communities

35 Michigan communities will receive more than $18.1 million in federal funding

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm announced today that 35 Michigan communities will receive more than $18.1 million in federal funding to support public infrastructure projects and create jobs while building the foundation for a stronger economy. The Community Development Block Grant funding is made available through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. 

“Investing in 21st century infrastructure is critical to attracting business investment, creating jobs and building dynamic communities,” Granholm said.

The attached chart shows the 35 communities chosen from 111 applicants, with a brief description of the projects.

Grant recipients were selected on their overall eligibility and the impact the project would have on the community. Priority was given to projects that have sufficient local matching funds, completed preliminary cost estimates and are ready to begin construction.

The Infrastructure Capacity Enhancement program, formerly known as the Public Works program, benefits cities, villages and townships where at least 51 percent of the population is comprised of low- and moderate-income residents as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funds may be used to upgrade existing public infrastructure systems by replacing deteriorating or obsolete systems or by adding capacity to existing but burdened systems.

To date, $80.4 million has been awarded to communities across the state through the Public Works and Infrastructure Capacity Enhancement programs.

“This funding helps Michigan’s communities address the cost of upgrading public facilities,” MEDC President and CEO Greg Main said. “In today’s competitive business environment, projects like these can give communities an upper hand in attracting new investment and jobs.”   

MEDC administers the state’s Community Development Block Grant funds received from HUD. These funds are used to provide grants to eligible counties, cities, villages and townships – typically those with populations less than 50,000 – for economic development, community development and housing projects. Larger communities receive block grant funds directly from the federal government. Projects are approved contingent upon compliance with state and federal requirements.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.