Revitalizing neglected buildings to strengthen communities, create jobs and protect the environment

Across the state, neglected and contaminated sites have the potential to be revitalized into thriving community centers. This is where EGLE’s Brownfield Program comes into the picture. Since 2019, EGLE has provided more than $151 million in brownfield grants, loans and incentives to 359 sites in 50 communities, supporting more than 19,229 jobs and $7.3 billion in private investment.

SVRC Marketplace, featuring the historic lobby of the Saginaw News.

According to EGLE Director Phil Roos, investing in vacant land redevelopment is about both cleaning up the past and creating a better future for Michigan’s communities, economy and environment.

Brownfield investments revitalize local areas, create jobs, foster small businesses, and provide vibrant community spaces where residents and tourists can gather and enjoy themselves. A shining example of the power of brownfield investments is the SVRC Marketplace in Saginaw, the former home of The Saginaw News.

The Saginaw News closed its downtown newsroom in 2012, leaving the city with a neglected building. It sat vacant for three years until a buyer made plans to redevelop the building and five adjacent properties. The sites were home to various businesses, including a gas station and service center, a lumber yard, and the Michigan Saw Company. All six lots were filled with foundry sand and contaminated with metals, and five had some form of chemical compounds.

The state invested more than $7 million in the project, including more than $820,000 from EGLE to pay for contaminated soil removal, asbestos abatement and demolition at the site. The redevelopment resulted in a $22 million capital investment, creating 100 full- and part-time jobs and removing 6,634 tons of contaminated soil.

Director Roos brought together EGLE staff and state and local leaders on Wednesday, June 26, for a tour of the SVRC marketplace and a roundtable discussion. The group discussed the importance of investing in brownfields, how EGLE can continue to be a good partner, and Michigan’s commitment to rebuilding communities, protecting the environment and boosting local economies.

“What was once a devastating eyesore has been transformed into a thriving marketplace that has not only enhanced commerce and investment in the city, but also provided hundreds of jobs and opportunities for residents and business owners,” said Saginaw Mayor Brenda Moore. “It is exciting to come together to celebrate the transformation of the former Saginaw News building and to discuss the importance of investing in these blighted properties. I would like to thank EGLE and everyone who helped make this historic redevelopment a reality.”

State Representative Amos O’Neal said, “Revitalizing vacant and neglected buildings to improve the quality of life for residents provides hope for a more prosperous future for all. The SVRC Marketplace is a great example of the power of partnerships between the state and local governments to improve our communities for future generations.”

EGLE’s Brownfield Program works with communities and developers to create economic opportunities by returning contaminated properties to productive use while protecting human health and the environment. The program provides technical guidance and financial incentives to evaluate and mitigate environmental risks, using scientific evidence to ensure the best long-term results and best stewardship of taxpayer dollars. For more information, visit the Brownfield Program website.