Project Details
Benton Harbor’s Arts District was considered to be one of the City’s greatest opportunities for revitalization within the heart of this economically and demographically challenged region. This project, was part of the State of Michigan’s “Cool Cities” initiative, encompassing six city blocks, which were characterized by deteriorating infrastructure, crumbling buildings, and a number of environmentally sensitive areas. With minimal city funding available to address the neighborhood’s issues, Cornerstone Alliance, the area’s economic development entity, partnered with Abonmarche, the City of Benton Harbor, and state and federal agencies to plan, procure funding, and design and engineer the successful renovation of this vital area.
This project was an enormous success, leveraging the development of 20 new residential lofts, and the development of over 25,000 sq. ft. of commercial and retail space, which greatly added to the sustainability of existing investments in the neighborhood. Abonmarche was able to improve accessibility throughout the area by using sidewalk grades, rather than ramps, which can carry a stigma.
Today, the Benton Harbor Arts District has established itself as one of the most sought after neighborhoods in Berrien County where one can live, work, and play within an urban environment usually only found in major cities.
Highlights
- Economic Development
- Street & Utility Reconstruction
- Streetscape
- Non-motorized Facilities
- Multiple Federal and State Funding Sources
More Information About The Art District:
- https://cms7files.revize.com/alleganmi/Streetscape%20Report.pdf – Revize – n.d
- https://bentonharborarts.com/ – Benton Harbor Arts – n.d
- https://www.abc57.com/news/building-up-benton-harbor-a-blooming-arts-district – ABC 57 – November 25, 2020