Houghton, Michigan, January 16, 2026
Houghton, Michigan has been awarded a major $23.9 million grant as part of the Michigan Talent Partnership Program to enhance public spaces and support local entrepreneurship. The funding will support multiple projects including a Business & Creative Incubator, a downtown pocket park and music venue, and better trail connections to the waterfront, promoting walkability and attracting new talent to the area.
Houghton, Michigan Receives $23.9 Million Placemaking Grant
Houghton, Michigan has been awarded a significant grant as part of the Michigan Talent Partnership (MTP) Program, announced by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) on January 15, 2026. This program aims to support communities in enhancing public spaces to attract and retain talent while fostering business opportunities.
Details of the Grant
The MTP Program is distributing over $23.9 million in total grant funding to six Michigan communities, including Houghton. The other recipients are Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Mt. Pleasant. Each community will receive support for transformational public space projects. These projects are designed to increase density, walkability, and vibrancy, thereby improving the quality of life for residents and attracting new talent. The grants are structured as performance-based, with specific milestones and reporting requirements to ensure accountability and effective use of funds.
Planned Projects in Houghton
Houghton’s grant will fund several initiatives aimed at revitalizing the downtown area and supporting local entrepreneurs:
- Business & Creative Incubator: The former Kirkish Furniture and Appliance Store building at 109 Sheldon Avenue will be transformed into a space for entrepreneurs, artists, and makers. This will provide small studio spaces, business support, public restrooms, and an accessible link between Shelden Avenue and Lakeshore Drive.
- Downtown Pocket Park and Music Venue: A new pocket park featuring a small music venue will be developed downtown, complete with year-round public restrooms, enhancing the area’s appeal for residents and visitors.
- MTU-to-Waterfront Trail Connection: Design work will advance for a more direct trail connection between Michigan Technological University (MTU) and the waterfront, promoting non-motorized mobility and outdoor recreation.
Community Reactions
City officials have expressed enthusiasm about the grant. City Manager Eric Waara stated that the funds will be used for multiple projects to further improve public spaces, enhance non-motorized mobility year-round, and provide resources for small, non-high-tech startup businesses. Mayor Robert Backon also welcomed the support, highlighting the MEDC’s continued faith in Houghton and its positive impact on the community.
Background on the MTP Program
The Michigan Talent Partnership Program is administered by the MEDC and supported by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). It focuses on increasing density, walkability, and vibrancy in communities across the state. Projects funded by the program include farmers’ market pavilions, streetscape and sidewalk improvements, incubator spaces, small business and entrepreneurial support, and parks. These initiatives aim to create vibrant, resilient, and economically competitive communities statewide.
Previous Developments in Houghton
In addition to the recent grant, Houghton has been proactive in revitalizing its downtown area. In March 2025, a $1.5 million grant from the Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program was announced to support the redevelopment of the former Kirkish Furniture and Appliance Store building into nine apartments and two commercial spaces. This project aims to transform a vacant, blighted structure into a community asset and create much-needed housing in the downtown area.
Conclusion
The recent grant awarded to Houghton underscores the city’s commitment to enhancing public spaces and supporting local businesses. By investing in these initiatives, Houghton aims to create a more vibrant and attractive community for residents and visitors alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Michigan Talent Partnership (MTP) Program?
The MTP Program is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and supported by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). It focuses on increasing density, walkability, and vibrancy in communities across Michigan by funding transformational public space projects.
How much funding did Houghton receive through the MTP Program?
Houghton received a portion of the over $23.9 million total grant funding allocated to six Michigan communities through the MTP Program.
What projects will the grant fund in Houghton?
The grant will fund the transformation of the former Kirkish Furniture and Appliance Store building into a Business & Creative Incubator, the development of a downtown pocket park and music venue, and the advancement of design work for a more direct trail connection between Michigan Technological University and the waterfront.
What is the Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program?
The RAP program is a bipartisan initiative that provides gap financing for place-based infrastructure development and real estate rehabilitation and development. It aims to support projects that promote walkability, transform blighted structures into community assets, and create housing and business opportunities in downtown areas.
What other communities received funding through the MTP Program?
In addition to Houghton, the MTP Program awarded funding to Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Mt. Pleasant for similar transformational public space projects.
Key Features of Houghton’s Placemaking Grant
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | Part of over $23.9 million allocated to six Michigan communities through the MTP Program. |
| Administering Body | Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), supported by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). |
| Planned Projects | Transformation of the former Kirkish Furniture and Appliance Store into a Business & Creative Incubator, development of a downtown pocket park and music venue, and advancement of a direct trail connection between Michigan Technological University and the waterfront. |
| Program Goals | Increase density, walkability, and vibrancy in communities to improve quality of life and attract new talent. |
| Performance-Based Grants | Grants are structured with specific milestones and reporting requirements to ensure effective use of funds. |
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