LANSING — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced $130,250 in Main Street Vibrancy Grants to support downtown improvement projects in nine Michigan communities, including Blissfield and Saline.
The grants are part of the state’s “Make It in Michigan” strategy to revitalize local downtowns, create vibrant public spaces, and strengthen community pride. The funds will help support projects like community markets, public art installations, improved signage, and gathering spaces.
Blissfield will use its funding to install a new downtown sound system and launch a student-led mini art gallery in a vacant alley. Saline plans to activate Leather Bucket Alley with a large sidewalk mural created through community painting events. Other cities receiving grants include Rogers City, Grand Haven, Lapeer, Old Town in Lansing, Coldwater, Three Rivers, and North End in Detroit.
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation manages the program, which offers grants up to $15,000 for downtown revitalization projects.
State officials say the grants will support long-term economic growth and help local communities create more attractive spaces to live, work, and visit.