MORENCI — A downtown redevelopment project in Morenci is moving forward with state support aimed at bringing new housing and business activity to the city’s core.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Morenci is one of five Michigan communities receiving funding through the Revitalization and Placemaking program, administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
In Morenci, a former downtown hardware store will be redeveloped into first-floor commercial space for a local CPA office, with two apartments planned on the second floor. The project is backed by a $464,100 RAP grant and is expected to generate more than $1.3 million in total investment.
Morenci City Administrator and Clerk Jeff Bell said the project supports local business growth and downtown renewal, quote, “This redevelopment supports the expansion of a long-standing Morenci business, helping retain and grow jobs while bringing new life to a prominent downtown building. Transforming a long-vacant property at a key intersection strengthens our downtown core and shows how targeted state investment can make a meaningful difference in small, rural communities,” unquote.
City officials say the project is expected to serve as a catalyst for future downtown investment.