GENESEE COUNTY, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced two redevelopment projects in Genesee County that will create new housing and commercial space.
The projects include turning a vacant historic building in Flint into a restaurant, and a vacant building in Montrose into five new apartments and more than 2,500 square feet of commercial space.
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The two projects received support from the bipartisan Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program and Build MI Community (BMC) Grant initiative, according to a release from Whitmer’s office.
Together, the developments are expected to generate more than $2.9 million in total capital investment while transforming vacant properties into vibrant community spaces.
The RAP program provides gap financing for real estate rehabilitation and place-based infrastructure projects. The BMC initiative focuses on activating underused or vacant spaces by supporting developers and property owners, particularly those with limited real estate development experience.
Whitmer said the projects reflect the state’s “Make it in Michigan” strategy, which centers on investing in people, revitalizing communities, and driving economic growth.
Here’s what to know about each project:
Historic Flint property to become themed restaurant
In Flint, a more than century-old vacant building at 703 S. Grand Traverse Street will be transformed into the Sit Down Taproom & Purveyor, an American public house-style restaurant and bar.
The establishment will draw inspiration from the historic 1936–37 Flint Sit-Down Strike, celebrating the city’s labor history.
The project will receive a $250,000 BMC grant and is expected to generate a total investment of approximately $834,500.
The City of Flint is also supporting the redevelopment through a tax abatement valued at an estimated $100,000 under its Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District program.
The redevelopment marks the first project for Feuersteyn Enterprises, LLC, led by Emily Feuerherm and Theodore Van Steyn. They are partnering with Gilmour Construction and the architecture firm Sedgewick and Ferweda.
“We are so grateful for the support of the MEDC who is investing in and celebrating Flint’s storied history through the development of this property,” said developer Emily Feuerherm. “The 100+ year-old house will be renovated into a restaurant themed on Flint’s historic 1936 Sit Down Strike, called Sit Down Taproom and Purveyor. It will be a unique gathering place in Flint, where Flint’s union history and the strength and bravery of its workers will be celebrated – and patrons can eat, drink, socialize, and learn all in one place!”
Local economic development leaders say the project will enhance downtown placemaking efforts while preserving a 112-year-old structure that has sat vacant in recent years.
“It is inspiring to see a project that will both support the placemaking efforts in downtown Flint while honoring our city’s great history, and we are thankful to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for supporting these efforts,” said Tyler Rossmaessler, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance. “The redevelopment of this 112-year-old vacant house will bring a new space for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy food, drinks, and community.”
New apartments, commercial space in Montrose
In Montrose, a vacant building will be converted into a mixed-use development featuring five new apartments and approximately 2,560 square feet of commercial space.
The project is designed to increase housing availability and boost foot traffic in the downtown area.
The development will receive a $944,000 RAP grant, along with approval of an Act 381 Work Plan and $76,333 in Brownfield Tax Increment Financing support. The total anticipated capital investment is just over $2.08 million.
The project is being led by Dean Yeotis of Ramby LLC, marking his first redevelopment effort. He is working alongside Revitalize, LLC and Triterra Environmental Consultants, both experienced in redevelopment projects.
“Ramby, LLC will offer high-quality, affordable housing along with two good-sized commercial spaces in a prime downtown Montrose location,” said developer Dean Yeotis. “We believe this project will serve as a very special place for the community while building momentum in downtown Montrose. With the help of an MEDC grant, the State of Michigan is assisting us in preserving an important piece of Montrose history while helping us chart a path to a brighter future. We are also very thankful for the help of Revitalize, LLC, and the leadership of various Montrose officials.”
Montrose City Manager Joe Karlichek called the investment a major win for the community, saying it will create jobs, improve housing affordability, and enhance overall quality of life.
“We are tremendously grateful and thrilled to have such investment in the city of Montrose. This project will help to create jobs, address and improve housing affordability, and improve the quality of life for our citizens,” said City Manager Joe Karlichek. “We want to thank Dean Yeotis, owner of Ramby LLC, Revitalize, LLC, Triterra Environmental Consultants, the Genesee County Board of Commissioners, State of Michigan MEDC, our city Mayor and council for their contribution, support and dedication. Our city is open for business, and we look forward to welcoming positive development in our community.”