10/18/23 - Grand Rapids Breaks Ground For New Affordable Housing Project

The Breton Grove community project will bring more affordable housing options and help those struggling to find a place to live.

GRAND RAPDIS, Mich.-  A groundbreaking ceremony took place Tuesday, October 17 at the Breton Grove complex on Grand Rapids’ southeast side.

It marks the start of construction for the 90-unit, multi-phased affordable housing community. 

The event was hosted by developer Woda Cooper Companies, Inc.  

The Contractor Assistance Program is working to increase the number of those who are newly trained and employed in the construction workforce and to help contractors and emerging developers to increase their capacity for larger contracts and projects.

The City of Grand Rapids approved a Payment In Lieu of Taxes for both phases of Breton Grove.  Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said, “Our city continues to need housing at all price points, but especially affordable options for residents with low and moderate incomes and for those who are facing homelessness. The Breton Grove and Breton Grove II development will help us address and alleviate this need."

The 90 units at Breton Grove and Breton Grove II will be available for residents at 30% to 80% area median income, with 33 integrated Permanent Supported Housing units for residents facing homelessness.    The two buildings will be configured with one-bedroom and two-bedroom units:

Apartments will offer large living spaces; kitchens with ENERGY STAR appliances, including dishwashers and microwaves; and washer/dryer hookups.  Interiors feature attractive finishes, quality cabinetry, and luxury vinyl tile flooring.  Each building will include a community room with kitchenette and onsite management and supportive service offices. Supportive services at the property will be coordinated by the lead agency Community Rebuilders, a Grand Rapids based nonprofit organization.  There will also be several units adapted for those with mobility challenges and/or sight and hearing disabilities. Both phases are expected to be certified LEED Zero Energy.    

Construction is expected to be completed in late 2024.