JACKSON — State funding for the Hayes Hotel redevelopment in downtown Jackson is back in motion.
State Rep. Kathy Schmaltz, who represents parts of Jackson and Washtenaw counties, has submitted a $4.5 million state funding request to restart the long-delayed Hayes Hotel project.
The request was filed on the first day applications opened under a new state process designed to improve transparency and oversight for taxpayer-funded projects.
The redevelopment of the former Hayes Hotel site at 228 West Michigan Avenue would support a $37 million private investment in downtown Jackson, including apartments, a restaurant, and retail space.
Previously approved funding was paused after unspent grant dollars carried over from the prior budget year. Schmaltz opposed that pause, saying projects with local support and progress were caught up in a broader review.
Schmaltz has met with developers, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, and city officials, and developers have reaffirmed their commitment to completing the project if funding is restored.
The request is expected to be considered as part of a supplemental state spending plan later this spring.