NEW BALTIMORE, Mich. – The rehabilitation of a historic building in Macomb County will create new housing units and commercial space, and make the area a more attractive place to live and work, officials announced.
The long-vacant, 9,316 sq.-ft Baker Building in New Baltimore will be restored with the support of a $1,238,924 Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program grant, according to a release from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
The project will create three new housing units and bring in a total capital investment of more than $2.95 million.
“Restoring the historic Baker Building in New Baltimore will create more housing supply to drive down costs and make downtown a more attractive place to live, work, and invest,” said Whitmer. “We are focused on our comprehensive economic development strategy to help anyone ‘Make It in Michigan’ by supporting people, investing in places, and winning projects. Together, we will grow our economy and make every region of our state more vibrant as we recruit and retain top talent and drive down the cost of housing. Let’s keep working together to get things done.”
The cost of this project is increased because of the work required to preserve the Baker Building’s historic features and repair structural issues.
The development team worked with city officials to get a Commercial Rehabilitation Act exemption, which will assist with the future financial viability of the site, according to the release.
This is the latest Michigan Economic Development Corporation initiative in New Baltimore. In 2022, the universally accessible playscape at the city’s Walter and Mary Burke Park was funded by a $50,000 crowdfunding goal and a match from the MEDC.
“This is very exciting for the City of New Baltimore as this building holds a significant piece of history in our community,” said Mayor Thomas Semaan. “This will also add to the significant resurgence of development and redevelopment of our historic preservation of buildings in the district. New Baltimore is grateful to the MEDC for their diligence in seeing this project through to successful resolution.”