State grant will help redevelop former Alpena bank building

What’s happening: The Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. has received a $904,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to redevelop a vacant former bank building on West Chisolm Street in Alpena into two commercial spaces. The spaces will be used by the Bay Athletic Club and Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. The redevelopment project represents a $3.18 million investment. 

About Thunder Bay Community Health Service: Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. has extensive experience in development, with multiple construction, renovation, and expansion projects across Northern Michigan. Since 2009, the organization has built or expanded several school-based health centers in Onaway, Cheboygan, Rogers City, Inland Lakes, Mio, and Johannesburg/Lewiston school districts, along with major upgrades to its Atlanta and Fairview health centers. 

What they’re saying: “The revitalization of 200 West Chisholm Street represents another exciting step forward for downtown Alpena,” said Alpena City Manager Rachel Smolinski. “We’re thrilled to see the collective vision of Thunder Bay Community Health Service and Bay Fitness come to life; transforming a long-vacant property into vibrant, active space that will attract people, support local businesses, and enhance the overall vitality of our community.” 

Funding: Since its launch in 2022, the MEDC’s Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) program has supported 243 projects in communities across the state. The Alpena Downtown Development Authority (DDA), with additional RAP funding support from the MEDC, awarded Thunder Bay Community Health Service, Inc. a $110,663 façade grant, along with an additional $5,000 contribution from the DDA.