Since the days of early mining, blacksmiths and general stores, local businesses have been backbone of communities across the United States. While the face of business has changed over the years, one thing remains the same. Businesses are a vital part of thriving communities big or small.

That’s why Revitalization and Placemaking is a key hallmark of City of Negaunee’s strategy to in reinvigorate our current business climate and attract new businesses. RAP has led to unprecedented investment in our downtown.

It’s the perseverance of city leadership along with reestablishment of Negaunee’s Downtown Development Authority that opened doors that were never available before. The DDA, the city, and local business leaders have jointly fostered major investments of public and private dollars in downtown.

The process started with facade grants for Tino’s and Smarty’s Saloon provided by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in 2018. Those successful projects were followed by an $850,000 Grant for the Downtown Enhancement Project. This was coupled with the city’s Phase-1 Water Project – a joint investment of nearly $3.4 million through the City of Negaunee, the MEDC, the Michigan Department of Transportation, and the Michigan Department of Agricultural Rural Development

Now more exciting news! Another RAP grant has been awarded to the cities of Marquette, Negaunee, and Ishpeming through a joint application. Negaunee can benefit from a portion of the $536,000 grant. This grant will be used to improve the facades of two downtown businesses, The Cone on Iron and Samara Floral, with a 50% private investment match.

The Cone on Iron will make much-need upgrades on the outside of the building and include a new storefront and door, which will lead to a new commercial space located off of Tobin Street. Additionally, the property owner will make interior upgrades to that commercial space.

Samara Floral has been busy at work over the past serval months with upgrades inside the shop. The grant funding will help with upgrades on the outside of the building with the goal of making the exterior more welcoming.

I also want to extend my much-deserved gratitude to the Lake Superior Community Partnership. Without their assistance, our communities and businesses would not have the strength they currently do. Thank you for your hard work in helping us obtain this grant and presenting us with yet another opportunity to grow and prosper.

Negaunee will continue to work hard every day and fight for every opportunity to better our community, assist our businesses, attract new businesses, and, of course, keep working to improve the quality of life for our residents. When we say “Forge Your Adventure” in Negaunee, it’s not just the tagline, it’s a way of life. If you’re looking for a community that has the right stuff, that’ll look out for you, and if you’re ready to make us your forever home, give us a call. We’ll answer.