MEDC announces infrastructure grant program for Michigan communities

LANSING – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has announced the Downtown Infrastructure Grant program aimed at helping low and moderate income Michigan communities improve their downtown infrastructure quality and reduce redevelopment costs.

“Improving our downtowns will ensure the continued vitality of communities and strengthen our ability to attract and retain young professionals and small businesses,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “This funding will help create opportunities for new development and economic growth in Michigan’s downtowns.”

DIG, a Community Development Block Grant program, is designed to provide public infrastructure improvement funding to projects located in a traditional downtown or traditional commercial center. The maximum grant that will be awarded to a community is $750,000. A total of $3 million in grant funds is available through the DIG program.

Funding priority will be given to projects that have significant local match and that have incorporated innovative design elements that contribute to creating a unique environment for the community.

Approximately 375 Michigan communities are eligible for funding. For more information on the DIG program, visit here: www.michiganadvantage.org/DIG2012.

Electronic or hard copy submissions are due by Friday, December 21, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. Applicants must address all items on the Part I application to be considered for funding.