Visser Brothers to Build New Multi-Tenant Facility in Walker

News Summary

Visser Brothers announces plans for a new 147,790-square-foot multi-tenant facility in Walker’s Northridge Industrial Park. Construction will start this winter without pre-committed tenants, reflecting the developer-friendly environment of the area. The project is expected to create about 100 jobs and involves an investment exceeding $10 million. With favorable highway access and ongoing infrastructure improvements, this development aims to enhance the local economy and encourage further industrial growth.

Walker, Michigan – Visser Brothers, a prominent player in the industrial development sector, has announced plans to construct a new 147,790-square-foot multi-tenant facility in Walker’s Northridge Industrial Park. This significant development will be built “on spec,” meaning that construction will commence without pre-secured tenants. This approach is a common practice for Visser Brothers, with a record of successfully filling their facilities once construction is underway.

The project comes at a time when Walker is recognized for its developer-friendly environment, coupled with advantageous highway access that has attracted various businesses to the area. Construction is set to begin this winter, with anticipation of completion within the next year. The Walker Planning Commission has recently approved the plans, paving the way for the new facility to emerge as a vital component of the local economy.

According to industry projections, the new facility is expected to create around 100 jobs, with the possibility of further job creation, particularly if the space is utilized for office purposes. The 10.3-acre site, acquired for $1.12 million, is among the last remaining lots in that vicinity, making its development particularly significant for Walker’s industrial expansion.

The estimated cost of the project exceeds $10 million, reflecting the scale of investment being made in the region. The facility’s design will accommodate the subdivision of space for up to four tenants, thereby allowing flexibility for future occupancy. This diversification of available space is intended to appeal to a range of potential businesses.

The expansion of the Fruit Ridge bridge and exit is expected to further enhance the infrastructure of the area, facilitating additional industrial development in Walker. Paula Priebe, planning director for Walker, indicated that this new construction initiative aligns with a broader development strategy that has already seen the establishment of major players in the market, including Amazon.

Visser Brothers has previously made headlines for its industrial projects in the West Michigan area. Recent ventures include converting the parking lot of the DeltaPlex Arena into a multi-tenant industrial site, which is projected to create 125 jobs over a decade. This site has already seen success, with a 115,000-square-foot building fully leased. Aurora North America has been secured as the first tenant for this DeltaPlex site, slated to occupy 75,000 square feet for office and manufacturing operations.

Despite a minor dip in industrial market rates in West Michigan, the overall landscape for industrial development remains robust. The combination of favorable conditions in Walker, such as good access and the support of the local government, further positions Visser Brothers well in this competitive market. With ongoing demand for industrial space, the newly proposed facility is expected not only to meet current needs but also to promote future growth within the community.

In summary, the initiation of the new multi-tenant facility by Visser Brothers marks a pivotal moment in Walker’s continued industrial expansion. With significant investments and job creation projected, this development is poised to play a crucial role in enhancing the economic landscape of the region.

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