MSHDA Mod provides innovative approach to housing a growing workforce

Media Contact: Misty Elliott
517-335-9847 | ElliottM7@michigan.gov

March 1, 2019

Lansing, MICH.—Small communities that are working overtime to attract and retain business need viable housing options for a growing workforce, and they need them now. MSHDA’s new pilot program creates affordable new construction housing that existing, expanding and new employers can use as an incentive for recruiting Michigan talent.

“We have taken a conceptual idea and turned it into a funded, operational and functional program in about six months,” said MSHDA Executive Director Earl Poleski. “MSHDA MOD reduces the typical single-family home construction timeline and allows housing to be made available for immediate occupancy during the 2019 construction season.”

MSHDA will award a maximum of 10 local units of government and nonprofit corporations a five-year repayable grant of up to $196,000 to build a spec model. Each pilot community will work with MSHDA to identify sites, approve designs and formulate a modular building team. The initial model will be used to market the product to potential homebuyers so they can experience firsthand this efficient and cost-effective housing option.
The first grant agreement has been executed with Coldwater and there are plans to have a spec model in place by early summer. Additionally, funds have been reserved and a formal grant award process is underway with Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Michigan. Stakeholders in Kalamazoo and Muskegon also have expressed interest and are in talks with MSHDA about bringing the program to their communities.

“This program is designed to provide an efficient workforce housing solution and attract income-eligible homebuyers into Michigan communities,” Poleski said.

MSHDA MOD uses modular and panelized manufacturing technology in primarily rural areas where there is a scarcity in labor and materials and a time sensitive workforce housing need to be addressed. Local units of government or nonprofits that are interested in the pilot program should email Tonya Young at hidmailbox@michigan.gov for more details.

Pilot program offers grants for modular built homes
in critical need areas