# Economic Development Project Team - October 6, 2026


**Body:** The City of Grand Rapids
**Date:** October 05, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Construction & Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding


The City of Grand Rapids Economic Development Project Team meeting on October 6, 2026, reviewed the city’s inclusion planning program, land bank and emerging developer initiatives, a revolving loan fund, and development center activity. Staff reported 57 inclusion plans managed since 2021 and approximately $830 million in private investment supported; final reports available to date reflected more than $20 million in investment. The discussion emphasized early outreach to contractors and subcontractors, participation goals, and connecting local businesses with resources. The development center reported recent project approvals, including 52 units at Union Suites and 40 additional units from the Leyard building renovation, and reviewed permit turnaround times and mechanical inspection delays.

The land bank outlined a proposed $5 million request from the Affordable Housing Fund for property acquisition, with no specific properties identified, and staff described a potential $2 million investment in emerging developer projects, alongside possible technical assistance that could be procured through an RFP. These proposals were under consideration by the Affordable Housing Fund Board; no vote or spending approval occurred at this meeting, with a decision anticipated in December. Staff also reported that state funding combined with the Third Ward Equity Fund would increase the revolving loan pool from $425,000 to about $1.4 million and shift its potential use toward commercial property improvements and redevelopment; the city is revising the related RFP and memorandum of understanding. No procurement awards or motions were identified.

**Source:** The City of Grand Rapids