Iron River lands major grant funding

LANSING– The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced Michigan Strategic Fund approval of $4,472,531 in Downtown Infrastructure Grant (DIG) program funds to nine Michigan communities for public infrastructure improvements, including Upper Michigan’s Iron River.

“Improving our downtowns will help ensure the continued vitality of communities and strengthen our ability to attract and retain young professionals and small businesses,” said Gov. Rick Snyder.

The communities will provide a total of $3,353,464 in matching funds. All of the projects are located in traditional downtowns, will be completed within one year and will incorporate innovative design elements.

The communities chosen for awards today are City of Croswell, City of Grand Haven, City of Hart, City of Imlay City, City of Iron River, City of South Haven, City of Tawas City, Village of Fowlerville and Village of Lyons.

“The DIG program is an important resource that helps communities promote new business development and job creation,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “We are pleased to work with city officials to make these projects a reality.”

DIG, a Community Development Block Grant program, provides public infrastructure improvement funding to projects located in a traditional downtown. The program is intended for Michigan non-entitlement communities – specifically low to moderate income communities that do not receive funding directly from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Projects must benefit the entire community to be eligible for the funding.

The MEDC Community Assistance Team members, along with state legislators, will be holding check presentations today in each of the respective communities.

The City of Iron River will receive a grant in the amount of $559,000 with
matching funds of $245,000 for
street improvements.

The MEDC markets the state with a focus on business, talent, jobs and helping to grow the economy. For more on MEDC and its initiatives, visit: MichiganAdvantage.org.