The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) rolled out its newest program today called the MI Neighborhood Program, which seeks communities that want to complement a Main Street or traditional commercial district revitalization project with a nearby neighborhood redevelopment.

Once accepted into the program through the application process, MI Neighborhood works with each targeted neighborhood association and local and statewide organizations to identify and address neighborhood needs. It connects the neighborhood with existing and emerging opportunities, which leverages resources that will help in the revitalization process. It’s important to note that only neighborhood associations that are within one-quarter to one-half mile of a downtown or approved commercial district will be considered for entry into the program.

The four focus areas of the MI Neighborhood program are:
*Organization: Organizing neighborhood stakeholders to get residents working toward a common goal to implement the MI Neighborhood, a volunteer-based program.
*Events/marketing: Creating a positive image of the neighborhood and traditional commercial district or traditional downtown to attract residents, visitors, customers and investors, as well as rekindle community pride.
* Design: Enhancing the neighborhood’s physical environment by capitalizing on its best assets and creating an inviting atmosphere through attractive parks, home improvements, streetscapes and landscaping.
* Neighborhood reinvestment: Create opportunities for residents to live in affordable homes, improve their lives and strengthen their communities.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. March 22. Selections will be announced by May 1. For other eligibility criteria, visit michigan.gov/mshda. MI Neighborhood provides no direct funding, but does offer valuable technical assistance and guidance about available resources.

For more details about the program, contact Lori LaPerriere at 517.241.4117 or email [email protected]. 

Nikki Brown is a legislative associate with the League handling economic development and land use issues.  She can be reached at [email protected] or 517-908-0305.