FRANKFORT — The Housing Trust of Benzie is set to break ground on the Cottages at Corning in Frankfort, which seeks to offer affordable housing options for those earning between 60% and 120% of the area’s median income.
According to a Sept. 2 news release from the organization, it will host a groundbreaking for the Cottages at Corning at 5 p.m. Sept. 11 at the corner of 9th Street and Corning Avenue in Frankfort. The event is open to the public.
The Cottages at Corning will include four attainable homes in a mix of single-story and two-story layouts arranged around a shared green space.
Board members Tim Jones, Jay White and others, along with new Executive Director Jackie Borozan, will offer remarks to mark the next phase for the Housing Trust and thank donors and partners. A ceremonial golden shovel turning will follow at the future home site.
A pergola donated by Weaver Barns will serve as a design feature, and exteriors will use sea slate, sage and driftwood tones reflecting Northern Michigan’s lakeshore.
“Matt Miller of Weaver Barns has been so helpful at every step of the planning and construction of our homes,” White, the Housing Trust’s president, said. “His insights and expertise about home construction and design are invaluable and his passion for serving others through our mission of providing workforce housing here in Benzie County is inspiring.”
On a nearly half-acre site, each home will be about 1,000 square feet with two bedrooms, one bath and an attached garage. The homes are intended for individuals and families earning 60% to 120% of Benzie County’s area median income and employed in, or relocating for employment in, the county.
Final prices are still being set, but the Housing Trust anticipates listings in the low $200,000s, about 25% below market value, to ensure long-term affordability.
Construction begins this fall, with sales expected by early summer 2026. Prospective buyers should contact Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency for purchase information.
As a community land trust, the Housing Trust will retain ownership of the land while selling the homes, a structure intended to keep prices attainable for the first buyer and future buyers. “This project demonstrates what’s possible when a community comes together,” Borozan said. “Families will be able to put down or deepen roots in Benzie County, build equity and contribute to the life of our town without being forced out by escalating prices.”
The Housing Trust aims to raise at least $200,000 this year from grants and individual donors to support the organization and fully fund the Cottages at Corning.
“Every dollar invested now not only builds four new homes but also lays the groundwork for lasting attainable housing in Benzie County,” Board Treasurer Andrew Brickman said. More than 20 donors have contributed over $120,000 to date, fundraising continues, and several grant requests to regional foundations are under review. The goal deadline is December 2025.
The event is scheduled for 5 p.m. Sept. 11 at the corner of 9th Street and Corning Ave. in Frankfort. To RSVP, email info@housingtrustofbenzie.org.
The Housing Trust of Benzie is a nonprofit community land trust dedicated to creating and preserving attainable housing for the working people of Benzie County. For more information, visit housingtrustofbenzie.org or contact Jackie Borozan at jackie@housingtrustofbenzie.org.