News

Corps of Engineers study kick-off held in Midland

Midland, Michigan – In late November, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers arrived in Midland for three days of planning with the local sponsors of a new General Investigation (GI) study. Called a “charrette” by the organization, this planning meeting kicks off a planned three-year study, which is the second study to focus on the Tittabawassee River Watershed and its flooding. This GI study is focused on managing flood risks to life and safety, reducing damages to property and determining the cost benefit and feasibility of potential projects

Midland, Michigan – The commander and staff from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Detroit District were in Midland on Monday, November 4, for an agreement signing ceremony with the three local sponsors: the County of Midland, City of Midland and Midland Business Alliance (MBA). The formal agreement is an initial step to begin the area’s second

Midlanders attend U.S. Army Corps of Engineers change of command ceremony Midland, Michigan – Members of the Midland Business Alliance (MBA) Advisory Committee on Infrastructure attended the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Detroit District’s Change of Command ceremony on July 16 at the War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms, Mich. Tony

Tony Stamas, President & CEO of the Midland Business Alliance testified in support of a Dow, Inc. project before the Michigan Strategic Fund Board of Directors this morning, “This is especially exciting because it demonstrates a continued commitment to innovation, dedication to research and development and the Midland community.” In

Community events announced for City’s $40 million flood reduction projects Midland, Michigan – The Spicer Group is returning to the Midland City Council meeting on July 22 to provide an overview of potential flood reduction infrastructure projects funded by $40 million in the current state budget. The meeting is at 7 p.m. in the Council

In the current housing market, several constraints loom large. Escalating construction expenses render it challenging for builders to deliver quality homes below the $400,000 threshold. To address the requirements of our workforce, projects increasingly need to rely on gap financing and other resources to make financial sense. There's an increasing interest among local investors to initiate projects aimed at constructing housing that fits with this growing community need. This shift towards smaller-scale, community-oriented initiatives holds promise for meeting housing demands while integrating with our existing neighborhood dynamics.

Midland, Michigan – At the June 10 Midland City Council meeting, the Spicer Group will present information on how engineers are evaluating and scoring potential flood reduction and resiliency projects.

The City of Midland and the Midland Business Alliance (MBA) Advisory Committee on Infrastructure (ACOI) are planning for the best use of $40 million included in the current state budget signed by Governor Whitmer last July. The ACOI worked closely with our state legislators to successfully include two funding provisions for the City of Midland to support efforts to reduce the severity of flooding and enhance flood resiliency. The first is $25 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, administered by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). The second is a $15 million enhancement from the state, administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Each of these grants have their own specific requirements around reporting, timelines and how funds can be used. Due to funding-related deadlines, decisions on future projects need to take place by the end of this year.

In an age where access to adequate housing remains a pressing issue for many, Midland County Habitat for Humanity (MCHFH) stands out as a path to sustainable homeownership. This global nonprofit organization’s efforts are alive and well in Midland providing affordable housing to those with low to moderate income. Yet, their impact goes beyond simply constructing houses. Habitat for Humanity creates pathways to housing that strengthen communities and empower individuals and families.

In the pursuit of thriving, sustainable communities, attainable housing options are a top-of-mind concern. Yet, beyond just cost, the pressing need for housing choice, particularly in vibrant, walkable areas, is a key factor often overlooked. This oversight not only affects the housing market but also has significant implications for talent retention, especially among empty nesters and experienced professionals seeking to downsize or transition into new phases of life.