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MJ Galbraith

MJ Galbraith's Latest Articles

Downtown Rogers City. “Murals on Main will be an incredible source of inspiration and beauty in Rogers City,” says MEDC Regional Prosperity Managing Director Paula Holtz.
Inspired by Jackson’s success, Rogers City looks to create downtown mural festival

“Murals on Main will be an incredible source of inspiration and beauty in Rogers City,” says MEDC Regional Prosperity Managing Director Paula Holtz.

Vacant for the past several years, the former school building at 219 N. Water St. will be redeveloped as affordable housing in downtown Owosso.
This century-old school building is being redeveloped as affordable housing in downtown Owosso

“Due to Venture’s continued commitment to the community, more affordable housing options will be available for the residents of Owosso and to those who want to make Owosso their new home,” says Owosso Mayor Robert J. Teich Jr.

Shady Lane Cellars is located at 9580 E. Shady Ln. in Suttons Bay.
Suttons Bay winery wins research grant to test new sustainable soft pesticides at vineyard

“With the SARE funds coming to Michigan, it will help the grape industry see first-hand how new approaches can help meet grower and winemaker needs in our climate,” says entomology researcher Dr. Rufus Isaacs of Michigan State University.

The nearly 60-mile non-motorized trail will eventually connect southwest Michigan to Calumet Park in Chicago.
Construction begins on Michigan section of 60-mile trail from New Buffalo to Chicago

The nearly 60-mile non-motorized trail will eventually connect southwest Michigan to Calumet Park in Chicago.

“This study showcases the critical importance of the outdoor recreation industry in Northwest Michigan, as well as its potential for further business opportunity,” says Janie McNabb, CEO, Networks Northwest.
Northwest Michigan’s outdoor recreation economy generated $1.15B in ’22, new study shows

“This study showcases the critical importance of the outdoor recreation industry in Northwest Michigan, as well as its potential for further business opportunity,” says Janie McNabb, CEO, Networks Northwest. “These recommendations underscore the need to work collaboratively for the benefit of both our economy and our natural resources.”

Architectural drawing of the Discovery Pavilion at Rabbit River Preserve by Lucid Architecture.
New amenities planned for 65-acre Rabbit River preserve in Hamilton

“This project’s additions to the Rabbit River Preserve will allow for more usage of the area, including during the colder months and poor weather,” says Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League. “Additionally, these new amenities will attract more visitors, allow for more kinds of events to take place, and make the preserve a destination. This will greatly benefit the community and all who come to enjoy what the preserve has to offer.” 

“We’re excited to revitalize this significant historic structure,” says Sue Damron, president & CEO of 19 Zero 9 and Schuler’s Restaurant.
Construction begins on redevelopment of this historic building in downtown Marshall

“We’re excited to revitalize this significant historic structure,” says Sue Damron, president & CEO of 19 Zero 9 and Schuler’s Restaurant.

Veterans Memorial Park in Perry.
New playscape planned for Perry park damaged by 2023 tornado

“Parks are a great way to bring members of a community together,” says Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League. “Adding a playscape will create more opportunities for children and families to make memories, and it will positively impact the Perry community for generations to come.”  

Designs for 49 W. Chicago St. in downtown Coldwater.
Three historic buildings win grants for façade restoration projects in downtown Coldwater

“The program committee was impressed by the quality of projects submitted and looks forward to seeing these historic renovations take place with the support of the MEDC,” says Audrey Tappenden, Director of Coldwater Main Street and the Branch County Economic Growth Alliance.

Plans to install new planter boxes and benches in downtown White Cloud could soon receive a financial boost.
These 10 Michigan small towns to compete for $50K in grants for innovative placemaking projects

“With dozens of project entries, selecting only 10 finalists was difficult, but we’re excited to learn more about these projects from the community members most passionate about them,” says Brandon Hofmeister, president of the Consumers Energy Foundation.

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