Governor Whitmer says the bill she just signed will help with affordable housing, attract businesses and more jobs.

(Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Press Release 1/31/23) - Today, Michigan is taking a step forward to grow our economy, invest in our communities, and build a bright future for Michiganders. I joined Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, Speaker of the House Joe Tate, and members of the Michigan Legislature to sign a bipartisan supplemental into law that will build more housing, revitalize communities, and empower entrepreneurs. This is the earliest any bill has been signed in a new term since 1947.  

This supplemental bill will help us lower costs and make a real difference for Michigan families, communities, and small businesses. It will help build or refurbish thousands of affordable housing units across our state, revitalizes our communities with projects to create more vibrant spaces, empowers entrepreneurs just starting out in the tech world, and help workers get good-paying jobs. I’m proud of my partners in the Michigan Legislature for their work to get this done and I look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish in the coming year.

Housing

We are investing in the Housing and Community Development Fund to build and refurbish affordable housing for veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, and working-class families across our state. This funding will help build or refurbish 2,000 housing units, house 6,000 Michiganders, and create 1,600 good-paying construction jobs. Additionally, we are funding the Missing Middle Housing Program, which aims to specifically build and rehabilitate properties for middle class families near where they work. 

Community

We are funding $100 million in Revitalization and Placemaking Grants to turn underutilized office, commercial, and community space into places for people to enjoy, including affordable housing, outdoor dining areas, or other place-based spaces. The first round of grants back in September 2022 provided funds for several projects that are already underway, including a 180-unit building in Portage, a historic theater in downtown Clare, a mixed-use building in Alpena, and Grand Circus Park in Detroit. The shared spaces will provide Michiganders a place to gather with their friends, family, and members of their community. This investment will secure good paying jobs in construction and operations for thousands of Michiganders for many years to come. 

Entrepreneurs & Workers

We are also investing $75 million in SmartZones, which are 20 regions across our state where technology companies, entrepreneurs, and researchers are near one another and organizations that help them succeed. This bill also provides $25 million for apprenticeships to help our Michigan workers pursue whatever career path they choose and ensure they have a good-paying job.

As we close out a productive first month of 2023, I am fired up to keep getting things done alongside the Michigan Legislature to help us build a brighter future for Michigan.