(The Center Square) – The State Land Bank Authority allocated $21.5 million in blight elimination grants to communities across Michigan as a part of a $75 million state budget appropriation used to convert underutilized space.
The removal of “blights” can mean the demolition or renovation of any local eyesore, whether it is dilapidated or not up to code.
“We are in the midst of one of the greatest land banking and blight elimination investments in our state’s history,” said Susan Corbin, director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and chair of the State Land Bank Board of Directors. “As we continue to progress with the deployment of these funds, we are focused on transforming the physical landscape of our state and breathing new life into neglected areas.”
Earlier this year, round one of the four step program began with $8 million for 198 properties. Of those properties, 159 are scheduled to be demolished and 37 will be repaired. The remaining grant will be used as gap funding for an environmental remediation project.
“The deployment of each round of blight elimination funding represents a powerful step towards our vision and focus on stabilizing neighborhoods, repurposing and redeveloping properties, building more equitable communities, creating more options for affordable housing and improving the overall quality of life for Michiganders,” Corbin said. “The State Land Bank Authority continues to be dedicated to ensuring these critical resources are leveraged effectively.”
During round two, $13.5 million was awarded to 43 counties through a competitive grant process.
Rounds three and four will be released this fall, with projects completed by September 2026.
“Eliminating blight frees up space for homes and small businesses and makes our communities safer, better places to live, work, and invest,” Whitmer said. “I am grateful to cities and towns across our state who are utilizing these resources to clear blight, supporting economic development and job growth in downtowns and main streets.”
