The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has awarded a total of $4.2 million in Brownfield Redevelopment Grants to support six housing projects across the state. These initiatives will collectively add 287 new housing units while addressing environmental contamination at each site.
In Pontiac, a $1 million grant will support the Auburn Place redevelopment at 454 Auburn Avenue. The project involves constructing a five-story building with 54 affordable housing units on a long-vacant and contaminated property. Most units will serve households earning 30%–60% of the Area Median Income, with some units reserved for people experiencing homelessness. Additional funding is provided by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and the Oakland County Housing Trust Fund, with project completion expected by summer 2026.
In Cadillac, a former dry-cleaning site at 223 Mitchell Street is being converted into a mixed-use building featuring 50 apartments and commercial space. EGLE awarded $817,925 for soil removal and vapor mitigation. This second phase of the Cadillac Lofts redevelopment is supported by MSHDA, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Completion is planned for fall 2026.
In Elk Rapids, the Flats on Bridge project will create 24 workforce housing units at 401 South Bridge Street. A $700,000 EGLE grant will help clean up contamination from a former petroleum site. An Affordable Housing Deed Restriction will ensure that units are reserved for households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income. The project also received Low-Income Housing Tax Credits from MSHDA, with completion expected in spring 2027.
Muskegon will gain 46 new affordable housing units at 122 West Muskegon Avenue, where a $850,000 EGLE grant will fund soil remediation and vapor mitigation. The redevelopment, which includes units for households earning 30%–80% of the Area Median Income, is backed by MSHDA tax credits and city incentives. Construction is set to finish in spring 2026.
In Royal Oak Township, the Royal Oak Cottages project will deliver 24 new single-family homes priced for households earning 30%–60% of the Area Median Income. EGLE provided a $410,000 grant to assist with soil contamination removal. The $15.7 million development is supported by Oakland County, MSHDA tax credits, and township tax relief, with completion slated for spring 2026.
Finally, in Bay City, the Water Street Lofts project will bring 89 new apartments to a cluster of contaminated, vacant properties in the downtown area. A $400,000 EGLE grant will help manage contaminated soil and groundwater. The $23.4 million project, located near the Saginaw River riverwalk, is backed by MSHDA and the Bay City Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, with completion expected in 2027.
