Greater Muskegon Economic Development Hosts a Successful Developer Day Tour
Muskegon, MI – Greater Muskegon Economic Development, in collaboration with local municipalities, hosted regional developers and construction companies for an insightful Developer Day tour of Muskegon County yesterday. The event, sponsored by Fishbeck, Wolverine Building Group, and Genesee & Wyoming Inc., attracted a diverse group of industry stakeholders, including financial institutions, commercial brokers, community leaders, and municipal officials, all eager to explore and share the exciting development opportunities in the growing greater Muskegon area.
The Developer Day tour kicked off with a presentation by Greater Muskegon Economic Development, introducing the visionary and transformative “Reaching NEW Muskegon Heights” plan and the ongoing efforts to secure funding and execute segments of this ambitious project. The spotlight then shifted to the recently unveiled industrial park master plan, emphasizing the availability of strategically located land with utility infrastructure in place, as well as a skilled local workforce ready for collaboration.
The tour then embarked on a journey through Muskegon Heights, where attendees had the opportunity to witness firsthand the mixed-use redevelopment efforts along Broadway Avenue and the adjacent Rowan Park. Melvin Burns, Interim City Manager, expressed his pride in the community’s dedication to creating a vibrant downtown that attracts both residents and visitors alike.
Continuing the tour into the City of Muskegon, City Manager Jonathan Seyferth provided valuable insights into the city’s areas primed for development and the impressive momentum the city has experienced over the past two decades. Seyferth highlighted the ongoing transformation of former industrial sites into livable, affordable, dynamic spaces along the waterfront, culminating at a stop at Hartshorn Marina. Here, the group learned about the exciting redevelopment plans for the Shaw-Walker building, a former furniture manufacturer, set to become more than 400 residential units under the stewardship of Parkland Properties.
The tour ventured north to the City of Whitehall, where major employers Howmet Aerospace and Hilite International shared their perspectives on the strong local labor force and productive relationships with municipal entities. The focus in Whitehall centered on both residential and industrial opportunities. Scott Huebler, City Manager of Whitehall, emphasized the community’s ideal position for a workforce seeking a balanced lifestyle.
“Greater Muskegon Economic Development extends its gratitude to all participants for their active involvement and enthusiasm during the Developer Day tour,” said Marla Schneider, President/CEO of Greater Muskegon Economic Development. “The event was a resounding success, showcasing the immense potential and vibrant opportunities awaiting those eager to invest in the future of Muskegon County.”
