COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Free Methodist Church of Coldwater and the City of Bronson were recently awarded Neighborhood Enhancement Program Grants from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.
The grants were among 37 that were awarded in the latest round.
As announced a couple of weeks ago, the Free Methodist Church will use the grant funds to paint and repair at least four homes in the Parkhurst/Larsen neighborhood. Each home will get no more than $7,500 and City Manager Keith Baker will help select them. Funds will also provide for a nearby community garden that is accessible to people of all ages and ability levels.
The City of Bronson has received a $40,000 grant that will be used to fund housing enhancements to single-family owner-occupied households for all properties on Washington Street and Winona Street. This area was chosen due to the age and conditions of the homes in the neighborhood and the availability of a large number of potential applicants for the funds. The properties are part of one of the oldest neighborhoods in Bronson with most homes built between 1900 and 1930. The city recently adopted its first ever rental housing ordinance as part of an effort to improve the quality of its aging housing stock.
In addition, the Village of Colon received $9,500 which will be used for improvements at one or two homes and for a neighborhood safety enhancement along with the creation of a pocket park at the police station.
The City of Three Rivers got a $50,000 grant which combined with a local match of over $140,000 will lead to the enhancement of 50 homes.
