Strategic Site Readiness Program (SSRP)

Program Type: State grant, loan, and economic assistance program for site preparation

Administrator: Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

Geographic Scope: Statewide Michigan

Program Launch: Recent (announced by MEDC)

Program Purpose:

• Provide financial incentives to eligible applicants
• Conduct activities on or related to strategic sites in Michigan
• Create statewide inventory of investment-ready sites
• Attract and promote investment in the state
• Help prepare properties to become premier, "shovel-ready" sites
• Build strong pipeline of development-ready sites across Michigan

Focus Areas:

• Industrial and commercial site preparation
• Infrastructure development (sewer, water, utilities)
• Site readiness activities
• Strategic site identification and preparation

Funding Types Available:

• Grants
• Loans
• Other economic assistance

Site Characteristics (SSRP Strategic Sites):

• Large parcels (237+ acres noted in example)
• Zoned for industrial and commercial use
• Located near major infrastructure (highways, airports)
• Significant economic development potential
• Need substantial infrastructure investment

Example Award:

• Project: Covenant Business Park, Lowell Township
• Location: 4687 Alden Nash Avenue S.E., Lowell, MI 49331
• Award Date: January 30, 2024
• Funding: $17.5 million (50% of $35 million total infrastructure needs)
• Size: 237 acres total; ~190 acres developable
• Zoning: PUD for industrial and commercial uses
• Primary Use: Infrastructure - primarily sewer extension and connection
• Partners: The Right Place, Inc., Franklin Partners, Lowell Charter Township
• Location Features: Southwest corner of Cascade Road and Alden Nash, just north of I-96; minutes from international airport

Program Recognition:

• 18 statewide projects announced as recipients (as of January 2024)
• MEDC explicitly noted strategic value of awarded sites
• Program builds inventory of premier development sites

Contact:

• Organization: Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
• Regional Partner: The Right Place, Inc.
• Address: 25 Ottawa Ave SW, Suite 400, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
• Phone: 616-771-0325

Application Process

Submission:

1. Prepare comprehensive application documenting site readiness needs
2. Identify infrastructure requirements and costs
3. Demonstrate strategic value and economic development potential
4. Include letters of support from relevant officials
5. Submit application to MEDC (timeline not specified in available materials)

Application Components (Based on Example):

• Site description and specifications
  • Total acreage
  • Developable acreage
  • Current zoning
  • Location coordinates and nearby infrastructure
• Infrastructure assessment and cost estimates
• Development timeline and phasing plan
• Economic impact projections
• Partnership agreements
• Letters of support from:
  • Local government officials (City Manager, Township Supervisor)
  • State representatives
  • Other regional partners
• Role of economic development organizations
• Broker and developer involvement documentation

Selection Criteria:

• Strategic value for region and state
• Infrastructure readiness needs
• Economic development potential
• Feasibility of site preparation
• Regional support and partnerships
• Cost-benefit analysis
• Job creation potential

Award Structure:

• Grants covering portion of infrastructure costs (typically 50% noted in example)
• Applicants responsible for remaining funding (match)
• Funds specifically designated for infrastructure development

Post-Award Activities:

• Community engagement and information sessions
• Ongoing coordination with local partners
• Infrastructure development and site preparation
• Marketing and site readiness documentation