Downtown Flint is prepared to growNew business deal means new developments
By Cathy Shafran
FLINT (WJRT) - (09/10/06)--More good news for downtown Flint. There's word on a new business deal that will mean re-development on both sides of Saginaw Street.
The announcement came during an anniversary event for the Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Hundreds of business and community leaders gathered together at Whiting Auditorium to celebrate 100 years of business history of the Flint Area Chamber, now known as the Genesee Regional Chamber of commerce.
While detailing it's history, leaders were also able to shed some light on the future of business growth in the area..
Word was unveiled that the Mott Foundation, led by its president Bill White, was deeding all the buildings known as the Mott foundation block - just south of the Mott Foundation Building - to the Uptown Reinvestment Corporation for re-development.
"I'm grateful that they're taking it because they have shown that they have the ability to do something with old buildings," said White.
While not releasing complete details at the Chamber's Gala Centennial Celebration, Herman said development of the Mott Foundation block will mirror development on the west side of Saginaw. The old buildings south of the Mott Foundation building will turn into vital developments once again.
"Over the next year we will start construction on the project of mixed use, retail, residential, office," he said.
Herman says the go-ahead for the Mott Foundation block is coming now because the timing is right.
The development is being backed by Michigan's governor, who made an appearance at the black tie event as well
Details on what's planned for the Mott Foundation block are promised by the end of the year.