What’s happening: Greater Muskegon Economic Development has completed master plans for the industrial parks in Muskegon Heights, creating a strategy to foster economic growth in the city. The
Muskegon Heights Industrial Park Strategy is a collaborative effort by the city of Muskegon Heights, Greater Muskegon Economic Development, CIB Planning, Metro Consulting Associates, and OHM Advisors.
Why’s it important: The Muskegon Heights Industrial Park Strategy provides a comprehensive roadmap for industrial park redevelopment, encompassing economic conditions, infrastructure improvements, incentives, financial tools, regulatory considerations, implementation strategies, design plans, and marketing strategies that make Muskegon Heights a prime place for attracting business projects.
What they are saying: “The Muskegon Heights Industrial Park Strategy’s completion has been instrumental for our organization,” says Marla Schneider, president of Greater Muskegon Economic Development. “It has guided us in identifying critical sites for environmental assessments, remediation, and marketing prospects. Armed with this knowledge, we are now poised to pursue grant funding, facilitating crucial infrastructure enhancements and bolstering our marketing initiatives.”
What it will do: The state grant from the Strategic Site Readiness Program will assist with blight elimination, removal of environmental contamination, and promote geographic equity by redeveloping the properties in the industrial parks.
How will it be used: The Industrial Park Master Plan will serve as a valuable tool for securing other grants and capital improvements. Any future funding will be directed towards enhancing the two industrial parks, focusing on improving infrastructure, signage, and property disposition.
What’s next: The Muskegon Heights Industrial Park Strategy was funded through the U.S. Economic Development Administration and matched by the city. The planning team engaged with city staff and key stakeholders with a direct interest in industrial development for Muskegon Heights. This participatory approach ensured that the strategies aligned with the diverse needs and aspirations of the community.
“Muskegon Heights is poised for success with available vacant land and buildings ready for development,” says Mayor Bonnie McGlothin. “The strategic plan identifies these opportunities and outlines a path for growth and expansion within the city that will ultimately lead to job creation for our residents.”
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