Vacant building in Downtown Cheboygan to be converted into mixed-use space
A long-vacant, two-story building located at 400 N. Main Street in Cheboygan will be rehabilitated to create retail space on the first floor and two apartment units on the second floor, helping to build greater vibrancy throughout the city’s downtown.
A top priority for the city, the project is located across from Festival Square, the community hub for farmers markets and events.
In February 2024, Cheboygan was among nine Michigan Main Street communities to receive a $25,000 grant for improvements for Festival Square. This redevelopment is being supported by up to $279,000 in RAP grant funds and is expected to generate a total capital investment of $624,533.
Upon completion, the building will have a new ADA-compliant restroom on the first floor, making the retail space more appealing to a future small business tenant. The addition of two residential units on the second floor will increase downtown density.
”The City of Cheboygan appreciates the Fleming’s commitment and the support from the MEDC in strengthening our community,” said City Manager Dan Sabolsky. “We look forward to continued partnerships that drive growth and innovation in Cheboygan.”
”We are grateful to the MEDC and the city of Cheboygan for their generous support through this grant,” said developers Brian and Wendy Fleming. “This funding is a vital step in helping us revitalize this building on Main Street, and we are excited to contribute to the continued growth and vibrancy of downtown Cheboygan. Together, we are strengthening our community and preserving the charm that makes Cheboygan such a special place.”
Long-vacant blighted building in Downtown Petoskey to be redeveloped into workforce apartments
A functionally obsolete and blighted building in Petoskey will be redeveloped to create nine workforce apartments, helping to address a housing shortage in the city while rehabbing a long-vacant building near the central business district.
The building, which served as a hotel, hospital, and nursing home over the years, has been vacant since 2006 and has been a top priority for the city due to its proximity to downtown and blighted condition.
The project is being supported by up to $878,000 in RAP funding and is expected to generate a total capital investment of $2,330,231. The addition of nine residential units near the downtown will provide a walkable, pedestrian-friendly experience for future residents.
”The City of Petoskey appreciates the commitment and vision of Silva Property Management as they have a proven track record of transformative community projects,” said City Manager Shane Horn. “The ongoing technical and financial support of MEDC in community revitalization projects allows these types of projects to occur. Our partners with MEDC have been instrumental in moving this revitalization project forward, we are excited to see the transformation of a blighted structure while providing much-needed workforce housing options.”
The City of Petoskey received certification as a Redevelopment Ready Community in August 2018; this development builds on the city’s progress in adding vibrancy for its community.