In 2020, the State Land Bank Authority (SLBA)  awarded $350,000 to nine communities for projects to promote public safety, stabilize property values and enhance economic development opportunities throughout the state of Michigan. 

Today, two of those recipients, the cities of Newaygo and Ironwood, share their stories of how they’re reaping significant benefits from those investments.

The City of Newaygo was awarded $21,158 to demolish one commercial structure and two residential structures on Wood Street. This development area, called Railside, was targeted by the city to be redeveloped and the demolition was partially funded by the City.

Thanks to these efforts, Wood Street will be the new home to a satellite medical center that is being built by Copper Rock Construction for Christian Healthcare Centers. The new facility will offer this medically underserved community space for primary care services including family medicine, x-rays, labs, counseling and a medical dispensary. 

“Acquiring and preparing these properties for development made it possible to build a much-needed medical facility in our community,” said Jon Schneider, Newaygo City Manager.

The City of Ironwood was awarded $50,000 to demolish a commercial building in the heart of their downtown area. This building had collapsed following a major snowfall and was both a safety hazard and an eyesore for the community. Located near the Iron Belle Trail and several businesses that attract youth, the city felt this project was a priority and contributed an additional $3,000 to manage the demolition process.

Now, the site has been leased to a southern outdoor BBQ food trailer providing an exciting new opportunity for an entrepreneur and new food options for the community to enjoy.

“The site is located right in our downtown and the new food truck has created a unique food opportunity for residents and visitors alike,” says Thomas Bergman, Ironwood’s Community Development Director. "It is difficult for small communities to have the available funding to remove dilapidated and blighted commercial buildings. Without the help of the State Land Bank, this property would have been a blight issue for many more years.”

The State Land Bank Authority works tirelessly to create a positive economic impact in Michigan communities by facilitating productive reuse of land. This incremental investment in small, rural communities sparks significant changes and new opportunities, contributing to the much needed revival and increased financial stability to the hometowns of millions of Michiganders.

“Eliminating blight is much more than tearing down an old building," said Emily Doerr, Executive Director of the SLBA. "It’s an opportunity to create new beginnings and make improvements that bring safety and greater quality of life for residents living in small communities.”