Title
Resolution to Approve a Grant Agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and to Approve and Authorize Execution of Sub-Grant Agreements with the Ann Arbor Housing Development Corporation and the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority and Appropriate Grant Funding ($4,300,000.00) (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
In January 2026, the City of Ann Arbor was awarded $4.3 million by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) through the Michigan Talent Partnership Grant. The grant provides critical gap funding for a set of interrelated downtown redevelopment projects collectively referred to as "Cultivate Midtown," representing more than $233.6 million in total investment from local, state, federal, and private sources.
The projects include:
? Streetscape improvements associated with the affordable housing development at 350 South 5th Avenue, a partnership between the Ann Arbor Housing Commission and Related Midwest; and
? Expansion of bus platforms at the Blake Transit Center, led by the Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority (AAATA).
In addition, the Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority is reconstructing Fourth Avenue to support mobility, pedestrian safety, and placemaking. While this work will occur alongside the grant-supported projects, it will not receive Michigan Talent Partnership Grant funds.
Together, the projects advance multiple City objectives, including affordable housing production, expanded transit access, reduced vehicle miles traveled, pedestrian safety, placemaking, and economic opportunity. By locating affordable housing in a transit-rich downtown area near services, jobs, and public amenities, the projects will help lower-income households access the full benefits of Ann Arbor's economy.
The terms of the grant between MEDC, as grantor, and the City, as grantee, are set forth in a Grant Agreement that requires approval by City Council.
Although the City is the formal grantee, the funded projects will be ...
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