50 new residential units coming to downtown Cadillac
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 22, 2024
LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Community Capital is proud to announce the groundbreaking of Cadillac Lofts Phase II. From the exterior, the Phase II building will mirror the existing Cadillac Lofts building that was completed in 2020. Inside, the second 37,000-square-foot building will offer 50 middle-income residential units and 1,300 square feet of commercial space.
The 50 middle-income apartments in the Phase II building will include studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units starting at $950/month. Resident amenities include a first-floor fitness room, interior mail/package room, onsite parking, electronic key-fob entry, security cameras, and access to full-time onsite staff. Apartment amenities include stainless steel appliances, in-unit washer/dryers, large windows, and modern finishes.
“This project expands the much-needed housing options in downtown Cadillac for middle-income professionals in the area,” said Marilyn Chrumka, vice president of development at Michigan Community Capital. “We are grateful for the steadfast support of the Cadillac Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, the City of Cadillac, and our funding partners, whose collaboration has been instrumental in bringing this vision to fruition.”
The Cadillac Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) and the City of Cadillac have been longstanding supporters of the redevelopment. To support this investment in their downtown, they approved an amendment to their brownfield plan adding housing as an eligible activity. The BRA also applied for funding from Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) on behalf of the project. Additionally, the City will complete public infrastructure improvements adjacent to the project to create additional public parking and improve the sidewalks and streetscape.
“Housing is a critical issue in our community, and the Cadillac Lofts development is helping address it with a transformative multi-family, mixed-use downtown development,” said Marcus Peccia, city manager at the City of Cadillac. “This project will continue to stabilize and grow our base and make our community a destination for those looking to enjoy city life in a rural setting.”
With the support of Congressman Moolenaar, the project was approved for a $2.9-million Community Project Funding grant administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
“As Michigan’s only member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to support communities across the Second Congressional District with funding to improve our cities and towns. The Cadillac Lofts development project will help revitalize downtown, address the need for affordable housing for young professionals and families in the area, and strengthen the local economy,” said Congressman Moolenaar.
Phase I of the Cadillac Lofts project was completed in 2020, and all residential units were leased within 6 months of opening. The second phase of Cadillac Lofts completes the redevelopment of a contaminated site in the heart of downtown replacing a vacant grocery store and dry cleaners. Once complete, the two-phase, $24-million Cadillac Lofts development will have created 92 year-round, middle-income residential units and roughly 8,800 square feet of commercial space. The project has allowed other local investors to see the demand for rental housing in the city of Cadillac.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) supported the project with a $5-million Missing Middle Grant. This funding has allowed the project to create housing for households earning between 60-120% of the area median income (AMI).
“Expanding housing options for Michigan’s workforce is critical to strengthening communities and supporting local economies,” said MSHDA CEO and Executive Director Amy Hovey. “Cadillac Lofts Phase II will provide much-needed, high-quality rental housing for middle-income residents, helping to ensure they have access to safe, modern, and affordable places to live. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this development will have on the city’s downtown and its residents.”
Additional funding supporting the Cadillac Lofts Phase II development includes:
A $817,925 grant to support cleanup of existing contamination at the site from EGLE.
$2.5 million in Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) grant funds from Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
West Shore Bank is providing a construction loan for the project.
See available units at the Cadillac Lofts Phase I development here.
Stay tuned for updates on leasing opportunities and commercial space inquiries.
Michigan Community Capital is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that exists to promote community and economic development, the creation of wealth and job opportunities; and to facilitate investment of private and public capital in Michigan. MCC is focused on driving economic mobility of low- and moderate-income Michigan residents and drives community development impacts in three key areas: Real Estate Development, CDFI lending, and New Markets Tax Credits. MCC is a U.S. Treasury certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and a Community Development Entity (CDE). Since 2005, MCC has supported over $1.4 billion in project financing, successfully attracted $510 million in federal New Markets Tax Credits, and helped to create over 1,500 housing units and facilitated the creation and/or retention of over 5,000 high-quality, accessible jobs. michigancommunitycapital.org
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Sign-up here for residential leasing information at Cadillac Lofts II!
We’ll update you as leasing information becomes available.
Expected completion in 2026 – Sawmill Lofts in downtown Grayling
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 19, 2024
LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Community Capital (MCC) is proud to announce that construction has begun on Sawmill Lofts, an $18.3-million redevelopment project in downtown Grayling. This transformative initiative will convert contaminated and previously blighted parcels into a vibrant, five-story, mixed-use building, bringing 40 apartments and 4,000 square feet of commercial space to 102 Michigan Avenue.
The project, located on a .76-acre site, has been over six years in the making, including a pause in 2020 due to the pandemic. Despite construction costs increasing by 50% since the COVID-19 pandemic began, MCC has persevered to bring this vision to life. Construction finances closed earlier this month.
“Although projects like these are becoming increasingly more difficult, we are seeing the state and local governments really stepping up to try to support housing and downtown development,” said Marilyn Chrumka, vice president of development at MCC.
The success of Sawmill Lofts is a testament to the collaboration and support of local and state partners, including: the City of Grayling, Crawford County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and Crawford County Board of Commissioners. These organizations approved a 30-year brownfield plan to support middle-income housing, laying the groundwork for revitalization.
“With the addition of this new five-story, 40-unit apartment complex, we’re taking a significant step toward revitalizing our downtown while addressing the growing need for modern, affordable housing,” said Erich Podjaske, Grayling’s city manager. “This project not only increases our housing capacity but also brings new energy and vibrancy to the heart of the city, making it an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit.”
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) approved a $1-million grant to address contamination from previous uses such as garages and a dry cleaner.
“It is exciting to be able to participate in a project like Sawmill Lofts. This project will not only address the risks associated with environmental contamination at the site but also create much needed affordable housing for the community,” said Carrie Geyer, EGLE brownfield program manager.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) provided a $3.5 million Missing Middle Housing Program grant to create housing for individuals and families earning 60–120% of the area median income.
“Sawmill Lofts demonstrates how innovative partnerships can create much-needed housing in Michigan communities,” said Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and executive director. “This redevelopment will not only breathe new life into downtown Grayling but also provide quality, affordable housing for middle-income individuals and families.”
Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) approved a $6.5-million Revitalization and Placemaking Grant to support the project’s construction and community impact.
“This is an exciting time for the community of Grayling. This project has been years in the making and once complete will provide much-needed housing in the area,” said Chief Place Officer at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michele Wildman. “We applaud the collective Team Michigan effort and perseverance to bring this project to fruition to ensure more families can Make it in Michigan and call Grayling home.”
West Shore Bank has facilitated construction financing.
“West Shore Bank is proud to support the Sawmill Lofts project, which reflects our commitment to investing in the growth and revitalization of Michigan communities. This is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and shared vision. Projects like these not only enhance the local economy but also improve the quality of life for residents and businesses alike,” said Raymond A. Biggs, president and CEO of West Shore Bank.
When complete in early 2026, Sawmill Lofts will feature a mix of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, with monthly rents starting at $885. Each unit will include stainless steel kitchen appliances, large windows, and in-unit washers and dryers. The building is designed to achieve Energy Star certification, ensuring lower utility costs for residents.
The project team includes Integrated Architecture (Grand Rapids, MI) as the building designer, Triterra (Lansing, MI) overseeing environmental remediation, and Pioneer Construction as the construction manager.
Stay tuned for updates on leasing opportunities and commercial space inquiries.
Michigan Community Capital is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that exists to promote community and economic development, the creation of wealth and job opportunities; and to facilitate investment of private and public capital in Michigan. MCC is focused on driving economic mobility of low- and moderate-income Michigan residents and drives community development impacts in three key areas: Real Estate Development, CDFI lending, and New Markets Tax Credits. MCC is a U.S. Treasury certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and a Community Development Entity (CDE). Since 2005, MCC has supported over $1.4 billion in project financing, successfully attracted $510 million in federal New Markets Tax Credits, and helped to create over 1,500 housing units and facilitated the creation and/or retention of over 5,000 high-quality, accessible jobs. michigancommunitycapital.org
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Sign-up here for residential leasing information at Sawmill Lofts! We’ll update you as leasing information becomes available.
Michigan Community Capital supports Micah 6’s community redevelopment project in Pontiac, Michigan.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 12, 2024
LANSING, Mich. – Micah 6 Community, a neighborhood-based nonprofit community development corporation dedicated to serving the city of Pontiac, received $15 million in New Markets Tax Credit allocation (NMTC) from Michigan Community Capital (MCC) on Tuesday, March 12, 2024 in support of the Webster Community Center project.
Micah 6 Community plans to transform a vacant former school into the Webster Community Center, which will include a small business incubator, a rentable commercial kitchen and food hub, a gymnasium for community activities, a health clinic, and more. The project will also serve as an indoor transportation center, and will have the only covered bus stop on the west side of M59. Tenants utilizing the community center will specifically use the space for services including:
after school and summer programs for school age children;
art classes and art therapy for all ages;
empowerment programs for families;
a coffee shop;
STEM education;
urgent care services;
dance for school age children;
sports leagues and mentoring for youth;
local food cooperative; and
adult education services.
“This project represents almost seven years of hard work and stubbornness from our team. We knew this project was important for our neighbors and our neighborhood. We believed it before anyone else did. We have diligently pushed through a pandemic, price increases, surprise basement floodings, and more strange circumstances that I can’t even remember, but we never questioned whether this project was worth it,” said Coleman Yoakum, executive director at Micah 6 Community. “There aren’t many people who started with us who are finishing with us. We are grateful for Michigan Community Capital for being there at the beginning, walking this long process with us and crossing the finish line with us.”
Located in Pontiac, the project falls within a “severely distressed” census tract based on a poverty rate of 36.4%, an unemployment rate of 8.6%, and within a designated USDA Food Desert.
This project is expected to retain or create approximately 70 permanent jobs, and 30 positions requiring no more education than a high school diploma. All full-time permanent jobs will be eligible to receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance, life insurance, and a retirement plan.
In November 2022, Michigan Community Capital closed a bridge loan to Micah 6 Community to bridge grant funds from the Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Environment to help finance environmental remediation work at the site. In addition to the $15 million in NMTC allocation, MCC increased the bridge loan to support additional remediation work.
“MCC has been supporting Coleman and the Webster team for several years as they have worked tirelessly and selflessly to create a place that directly meets the needs of the Pontiac community,” said Eric Hanna, president and CEO at Michigan Community Capital. “Historic, adaptive reuse projects are incredibly important because they preserve the cultural identity and history of the neighborhood, bringing the building into the present so that its services can be enjoyed for generations. We commend the team on a big effort and outstanding job bringing such an impactful project to a major milestone!”
National Trust Community Investment Corporation (NTCIC) is providing a $7 million NMTC allocation.
“We are honored to be a part of this project and work with dedicated partners to bring this historic building back to life,” said Kathleen Galvan, Acquisitions Manager at National Trust Community Investment Corporation. “Coleman and the Webster team exemplify the mission of the NTMC program – they listened to and worked hand in hand with the community to create a unique place that serves the needs of their neighbors. Their hard work will touch many lives for years to come.”
PNC Bank is providing $3 million in NMTC allocation and federal historic tax credit equity. A PNC-managed fund is the NMTC investor.
“Over the years, PNC has collaborated with a number of organizations to benefit Pontiac residents and businesses,” said Michael Bickers, PNC regional president for Detroit and Southeast Michigan. “The Webster Community Center is a multifaceted project that will provide critical resources and access to programs that will benefit the city of Pontiac and its residents. PNC is committed to working with developers, governments, and residents to add projects such as this one to communities across the country.”
MEDC provided two sources of capital including a Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Grant and a Community Revitalization Program (CRP) Loan.
The Webster Community Center is a community-driven and supported project. The following organizations have financially supported the project: Oakland County, Cinnaire, IFF, Opportunity Resource Fund, EGLE, and others. The following foundations have also collectively contributed more than $5 million in grant funds; Carls Foundation, William Davidson Foundation, Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, Pontiac Funders Collaborative Community Foundation, Total Health Care Foundation, Ballmer Group, Consumers Energy Foundation, and other various organizations.
Michigan Community Capital (MCC) is a non-profit diversified public-private partnership that supports the missions of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) by aggregating capital and facilitating the financing and development of low-income and attainable housing, and the redevelopment of complex brownfield sites within the State of Michigan. MCC is a U.S. Treasury certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and the only Community Development Entity (CDE) that deploys this resource solely throughout the entire State of Michigan. Since 2005, MCC has supported over $1.3 billion in project financing, successfully attracted $445 million in federal New Markets Tax Credits, and helped to create over 1,500 housing units, 4.3 million square feet of commercial, retail and industrial space to facilitate job creation and expansion and has insured over 22,000 affordable multifamily doors. MCC drives community development impacts in four key areas: Real Estate Development, CDFI lending, New Markets Tax Credits, and affordable Property Insurance. michigancommunitycapital.org.
