Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) - July 22, 2026

The City of Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) held a meeting on July 22, 2026, focusing on several procurement and redevelopment initiatives. Key agenda items included the approval of interlocal tax capture sharing agreements involving the North Monroe TIFFA, the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), and the Smart Zone Local Development Finance Authority to facilitate developer reimbursements for brownfield projects. The board authorized work plans and reimbursement agreements for complex redevelopment projects such as the 528 Bridge rail depot conversion, including public sidewalk improvements with cost-sharing arrangements. Additionally, the BRA reviewed and approved multiple environmental site assessment (ESA) grant requests totaling approximately 20% of the fiscal year budget, supporting due diligence for various commercial and housing redevelopment projects. Discussions also addressed proposed parameters for ESA grant awards, including funding caps and timing of applications, to better manage increasing demand. The meeting concluded with updates on staffing changes, upcoming subcommittee meetings focused on emerging developer programs and revolving loan funds (RLFs) for small business and affordable housing development, and the execution of a developer reimbursement agreement for the Grand Action 2.0 amphitheater brownfield plan. Motions to approve resolutions and agreements related to these procurement and redevelopment activities were unanimously passed.