Purpose:

Clean Michigan Initiative (CMI) Waterfront Redevelopment Grants provide funding to local units of government to revitalize waterfront properties by funding property acquisition, demolition, response activities, public infrastructure, and public facility improvements.  It has also been used in restoration activities at 12 lighthouses.

Goals of the Program:

The objective of the Waterfront Redevelopment Grant program is to revitalize waterfronts, create economic benefit for communities, and provide waterfront access for the public.

Criteria:

Grant funds may be used for eligible activities that are part of a project described in a waterfront redevelopment plan.  The plan must include a description of how the project will significantly contribute to the local economy and community redevelopment or the revitalization of adjacent neighborhoods, and how the project will provide for public access to the waterfront or will provide recreational opportunities for the public.

Dollar Amount(s) Available (Minimum or Maximum):

There is approximately $750,000 available for the 2008 Request for Proposals (RFP).  Priority will be given to projects that request $100,000 or less. Grant awards are contingent upon availability of funds and the terms and conditions of the Brownfield Redevelopment Grant Program.

Eligibility:

Any local unit of government, including a county, city, village, township, or an agency of a county, city, village, or township, or an authority or other public body created by or pursuant to state law is eligible.  The applicant must submit a waterfront redevelopment plan, the contents of which are described in the grant application.  Grants may not be used for land or facilities that will be owned or operated by a gaming facility, a stadium or arena for use by a professional sports team, or a private or municipal marina.  Eligible activities include:

• Environmental response activities on waterfront property consistent with a waterfront redevelopment plan.
• Demolition of buildings and other facilities along a waterfront that are not consistent with a waterfront redevelopment plan.
• Acquisition of waterfront property or the assembly of waterfront property consistent with a waterfront redevelopment plan.
• Public infrastructure and facility improvements to waterfront property consistent with a waterfront redevelopment plan.

Application Process:

Applications are due March 26, 2008.  Prospective applicants should review the RFP and the application instructions before submitting an application.  To see the full text of the RFP, go to:  www.michigan.gov/deqbrownfields, select Brownfield Grants and Loans.  Contact the grant coordinator in your area with any questions about the RFP.

Source(s) of Funds:

Clean Michigan Initiative Bond Fund.

Authority:

Part 795, Waterfront Revitalization and Part 196, Clean Michigan Initiative Implementation, of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended.

For a list of WRG projects, please refer to the Consolidated Report