Urban Renewal #2

Originally built for Davenport University in 1949, the building became home to Junior Achievement, who occupied the structure for about 30 years. Since 1998 the building has been vacant and an eyesore, particularly since it inhabits a major intersection downtown.

One developer bought the property and held it for a while looking for a suitable tenant. The developer eventually lost the building to the bank. Another developer recently purchased it from the bank and is making plans for a historic renovation. They will also be seeking state and federal historic tax credits along with "brownfield" redevelopment money. It won't be (can't be) torn down due to its historic classification.

The two-story building will most likely hold offices on the second floor, and the first floor use is still undetermined. The plan is to have the building completely renovated by September, 2012, in time for ArtPrize. It will be wonderful to see the old building put to good use, all 25,530 square feet of it.

Urban Renewal #1

Tags: urban renewal, grand rapids