City of Plainwell receives certification as Redevelopment Ready Community

Designation facilitates private investment, improves economic development opportunities

LANSING, Mich. – For their efforts in establishing a solid foundation to attract private investment and further build on municipality assets, the city of Plainwell has been awarded the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) certification, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced.

Plainwell joins 44 other Michigan communities in all corners of the state which have qualified as “thoroughly prepared” when it comes to planning and zoning to remove traditional barriers and promote opportunities for prospective investors. Visit here to see the entire list of Redevelopment Ready Communities.

“The City of Plainwell prides itself on being a great place for investment and a destination for businesses to thrive. By achieving the Redevelopment Ready Certification, the city is in a better position to promote investment and ensure a transparent process,” said Plainwell City Manager Erik Wilson. “Though the certification process was rigorous, we were able to identify internal processes that needed to be streamlined to ensure we are a responsive business-friendly community.”

As an RRC participant, the city of Plainwell received a comprehensive assessment that measured current community and economic development practices compared to RRC best practice standards. The program evaluates and certifies communities that integrate transparency, predictability and efficiency into economic development practices. Certification status is a compelling indicator that a community has removed development barriers and streamlined processes to be more competitive and attractive to investors.

To reach certification Plainwell worked to improve upon numerous policies and processes. The city’s efforts are highlighted by the creation of a community engagement plan, overarching economic development strategy and the development of flowcharts that clarify the steps in each of the city’s development review processes.

“Our mission at MEDC is to support Michigan’s strong economic momentum and empower communities to establish a strong planning, zoning and economic development foundation,” said MEDC Senior Vice President Michele Wildman. “Plainwell is well-positioned to continue to implement their vision for the future and further improve the quality of life for its residents. We look forward to building upon our relationship with the city and supporting local economic development efforts.”

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.