Grant boosts efforts to restore Muskegon's historic Torrent House to 'former glory'

What's happening: The efforts to restore the historic Torrent House and demolish the attached former Community Service Building in downtown Muskegon are moving forward, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation. The Greater Muskegon Economic Development authored a grant request on behalf of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County to receive funding for this project. 

Why they are doing it: The Consumers Energy Foundation, the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest energy provider, is committed to investments that strengthen Michigan communities. In 2022, the Consumers Energy Foundation, along with Consumers Energy, its employees, and retirees, contributed more than $18.5 million to Michigan nonprofits.

Aerial view of demolition work of the ormer Community Service Building. (GMED)

What they are saying: "Placemaking is an important component of building community and bringing people together," said Cathy Wilson, secretary/treasurer of the Consumers Energy Foundation. "The work the Community Foundation is doing to create a vibrant and thriving downtown Muskegon will support neighborhood and business growth, and we are proud to provide grant funding to support that vision."

How they’re doing it: The grant will be distributed by the Community Foundation for Muskegon County to the Downtown Muskegon Development Corporation to facilitate the work. The Torrent House, at the corner of Webster Avenue and Third Street, is a cornerstone of Muskegon's rich history, and the exterior restoration aims to recapture its original grandeur and beauty. 

How the partnership works: “We are grateful to Greater Muskegon Economic Development for assisting our community with necessary applications to secure funding for redevelopment projects,” said Todd Jacobs, president/CEO of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. “Our organization works as a natural partner with other nonprofits to receive and distribute grant dollars that benefit the greater Muskegon area.”

What's next: The restoration project represents a significant step in the effort to revitalize downtown Muskegon and create a vibrant community space for residents and visitors. The Community Foundation for Muskegon County and the Downtown Muskegon Development Corporation invite the public to witness the progress of this restoration at the corner of Webster Avenue and Third Street.

Aerial view of demolition work of the ormer Community Service Building. (GMED)

What's the goal: "We are appreciative of the $25,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation," said Steve Olsen, a member of the Downtown Muskegon Development Corporation. "We are grateful to the Consumers Energy Foundation for its commitment to communities and the preservation of our historic resources. We are thrilled that the Torrent House is being restored to its former glory.”