Granholm Announces Grant Key Infrastructure Improvements in Hartford

$289,000 grant to Hartford in Van Buren County

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced a $289,000 grant to Hartford in Van Buren County to fund downtown infrastructure improvements. The grant is being made available by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) with funds provided by the federalCommunity Development Block Grant program. An MEDC official presented a ceremonial check to Hartford and Van Buren County officials today. 

“Vibrant communities with thriving downtowns are critical to building a strong and diversified economy in Michigan,” Granholm said. “These kinds of projects help put into place the kind of 21st-century infrastructure that can support new business investment and new job growth.”

The City of Hartford will contribute $40,000 to support the project, which will include a completely reconstructed South Municipal parking lot, sewer system upgrades, an expanded sidewalk and other streetscape enhancements.

“The CDBG program has been a tremendous resource to the Hartford community in upgrading our housing conditions, the city’s infrastructure and the overall quality of life of the residents here,” said Hartford City Manager Yemi Akanwale. “The city of Hartford is very grateful to the MEDC for the assistance and looks forward to a successful implementation of this downtown infrastructure project.”

The MEDC is able to award approximately $40 million in federal CDBG funds each year. There are 1,655 local governments within the state eligible to apply for these funds. Projects are approved contingent upon compliance with state and federal requirements.

“The CDBG program is a valuable resource for communities looking to facilitate business development and job growth,” MEDC President and CEO Greg Main said. “The MEDC was pleased to partner with Hartford officials to make this important project a reality.”

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.