Bay Mills Indian Community announces $5.5 million mixed-use development

What's happening: The Bay Mills Indian Community in Brimley plans to build a mixed-use retail and apartment building, providing a new option for both residential and economic needs. Some of the proposed retail space will be used for some tribal services; other space will be available for local businesses. Nine apartments will be built above the retail space, mimicking other mixed-use retail and residential projects across the Upper Peninsula. The $5.5 million project will be funded through a mix of sources, including $2 million from Indian Community Development Block Grant funds, $3.25 million from the Bay Mills Indian Community and $300,000 from a USDA Rural Development Grant. 
 
Growth in civil planning: The building will help revitalize the area near the former Kings Club Casino. As the oldest building on the tribal land, the building served in historic gaming and government roles for BMIC. The tribe was the first in the nation to have both its administration and gaming tables in a singular building, but that process became outdated after increased offerings in both the casino and public services. The new building will be halfway between the Ojibwe Charter School and Bay Mills Community College as Bay Mills continues to establish a charming and developed community. 

What they're saying: “This project will honor our history and provide for our future. King’s Club gave (the Bay Mills Indian Community) the foundation to build upon, and for that we are thankful,” said Whitney Gravelle, president of the Bay Mills Indian Community. “With the input and vision of our General Tribal Council and membership, through open dialogue and thoughtful discussion, our community voiced the need for both housing and economic opportunities. By moving forward with this plan, we are honoring that guidance and creating a development that blends retail and residential spaces to revitalize this important area for future generations."

What's next: The wintertime will be the right time to solidify the engineering plans. Bidding will open for the project sometime this spring, Gravelle says. Additional discussions over rental rates, pet-friendly housing and other details are ongoing.