Three Oaks achieves MEDC's Redevelopment Ready Communities "Essentials" status

Designation signals communities have identified redevelopment goals and created a community-supported vision for the future.

LANSING, Mich. – For its efforts in establishing a more streamlined development process and overall community development vision, the Village of Three Oaks achieved the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) Essentials designation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today.

Redevelopment Ready Communities is a voluntary initiative which empowers communities to shape their future as they strive to become RRC Certified by building a foundation of planning, zoning, and economic development best practices and integrating them into their everyday functions and was launched statewide in 2013. RRC promotes communities to be development ready and competitive in today’s economy by actively engaging stakeholders and proactively planning, making them more attractive for projects that create places where people want to live, work, and invest.

After engaging communities and other partners for feedback, MEDC evolved the RRC toolkit to introduce two designations: “Essentials” and “Certified.” This allows communities to choose the path that best suits their needs, considering their capacity, goals, and local factors. Achieving the RRC Essentials designation formally acknowledges that a community has a clear vision for the future and the essential practices to realize that vision.

“We applaud the Village of Three Oaks for achieving Essentials status,” said MEDC Chief Place Officer Michele Wildman. “Three Oaks has identified its desired direction for the future and has a plan to achieve its goals for the community. We look forward to building upon our relationship with the village and supporting its continued economic development efforts.”

To achieve the Essentials designation, Three Oaks worked to incorporate all the key documents and practices to provide a predictable development experience and meet local planning and zoning responsibilities under Michigan law. The village’s efforts have produced high-quality documents and processes that will continue to generate value.

“Achieving the Redevelopment Ready Communities Essentials designation is a significant milestone for the Village of Three Oaks,” said Village Manager Dan Faulkner. “This designation not only strengthens the Village’s ability to attract investment and support economic growth but also streamlines the development process, making it more efficient for both developers and our small but dedicated staff. By enhancing transparency and predictability, we are ensuring that Three Oaks remains a welcoming and well-prepared community for future opportunities while preserving the charm and character that make our village unique. We extend our sincere thanks to Julia Turnbull and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for their guidance and support throughout this process. Their expertise and collaboration have been invaluable in helping us achieve this important designation."

To date, the MEDC has formally recognized 81 Michigan communities in all corners of the state at the Certified level and 31 at the Essentials level. These communities have qualified as “thoroughly prepared” when it comes to planning and zoning, to remove traditional barriers and promote opportunities for prospective investors. To see the entire list of Redevelopment Ready Communities, visit here.

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.