Projects will grow economy in Tri-County Region 

LANSING, Mich., (July 8, 2024) — The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is thrilled to announce the recipients of its Small Town Enhancement Grant, a new initiative that fosters smart requested growth in rural communities through smart projects requested by the community that is focused on revitalizing public gathering spaces. This program is the latest strategy for LEAP’s strategical regional plan.

“Small rural community, mainstreet and agriculture assistance are a key part of our broader regional strategy,” shared Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP (left). “LEAP is known for its larger projects, but we pour a lot of resources into supporting small businesses and rural communities, in important ways. We want everyone in our three-county region to take pride in where they live and work, that’s quality of life, and that adds up to more investment and jobs and reasonable but necessary population growth, which we all need. The ripple effects of our Small Town Enhancement program are important.

In partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), which provided the funding, LEAP’s new program awarded six grants to communities across Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties. The projects include business improvements, community beautification, and creating new community gathering spaces. The selected 6 communities are: the Village of Vermontville, Dimondale, Stockbridge, Leslie, Maple Rapids and Ovid.

Small Town Enhancement Grant Roadshow – July 9-11

After a rigorous selection process, six exceptional projects were chosen to receive grants ranging from $11,000 - $25,000. To celebrate the kickoff of these projects, LEAP is organizing a Small Town Enhancement Grant Roadshow to visit each community between July 9-11.

The roadshow will begin July 9 with visits to Vermontville (12:30 p.m.) and Dimondale (3 p.m.).

On July 10, the roadshow will continue at Stockbridge (12:30 p.m.) and Leslie (3 p.m.).

Events at Maple Rapids (12:30 p.m.) and Ovid (3 p.m.) will conclude the roadshow on July 11.

About the Projects

Village of Vermontville

“Enhancing this space shows the community that we care about their future. Renovating the historic bell tower generates pass through traffic that benefits all the other local businesses as well,” explains Becky Austin, clerk at Village of Vermontville. The bell tower is located in the heart of downtown Vermontville. The building has been a pillar of the community since 1864, making the structure 160 years old, and since 2018 has been the Community Center for the town. It’s a gathering place for all citizens.”

The grant funds will be used to replace the stairs, repair the bell tower, add new walkways leading up to the West side door, and replace the louvers located on the bell tower. 

Location: 108 N. Main St., Vermontville, MI 49096

Village of Dimondale

A new, two-story mural will soon grace the walls of a prominent downtown building to boost community pride and visitor engagement. 

“Because of its location and visibility, this mural will provide incredible benefit to the majority of residents and visitors alike. Beyond this being a new landmark to be proud of, notably, public art increases a sense of belonging, helps people have less anxiety, reduces isolation, and reduces negative mental & emotional health. We want people to feel welcome and cared for when in our village.”

Location: 105 N Bridge St, Dimondale, MI 48821

Village of Stockbridge

Over in Stockbridge, community members are hoping that transforming the patio section next to Village Hall into a tranquil seating area will foster community engagement and relaxation.

“Village Hall is in the heart of our community,” says Jill Marie Ogden, village manager and council president. “The residents are looking forward to having a nice place to gather for small breaks each day or for special events. The updates will be enjoyed for many years to come!”

Location: Adjacent to Village Hall, 118 N. Center St, Stockbridge, MI

City of Leslie

In Leslie, erecting a new pavilion at the site of the former community pool will serve as a versatile venue for events and gatherings.

“It will be great to have a large pavilion for special events and parties,” says Chelsea Cox, clerk at City of Leslie. “The community has needed something here for years to fill the gap after the community pool closed. I can’t wait to see how beautiful it will be!”

Location: 220 N. Main St, Leslie, MI 49251

Maple Rapids
“So many great things are happening in Maple Rapids. New businesses have come to the area, existing businesses are reinvesting, and the community is seeing a change in the downtown streetscape,” says Gregg Smyth, owner of the Phillips Cider Bar & Pizzeria. “The Pizzeria has been a mainstay in Maple Rapids since 1984. This 120-year-old building will receive a new façade while preserving the unique charm inherent to Maple Rapids. It is in the heart of the village and will remind residents and locals from the surrounding community why they love Maple Rapids so much!”

Smyth continues, “Investments like this also encourage population retention and growth by ensuring that locals will have convenient access to amenities that otherwise would require travel. Dollars spent in small businesses like ours and other area businesses directly impact the community through the creation of jobs. Many of the funds generated are recycled directly into the local economy. We are proud to be in Maple Rapids!”

Location: 112 West Main Street, Maple Rapids, MI

City of Ovid

In the City of Ovid, installing new banners along Main Street in the downtown area will enhance the visual appeal and support local businesses. 

“I’m grateful that LEAP is dedicated to investing in local communities to make them wonderful places to live, work, and play,” says Eric Starn, city council member of Ovid. “You might not think much about something like signage, but the importance of visually creating a shared celebratory experience as a community cannot be understated. This is just one of the many steps that the City and Planning Commission are taking to make the residents of Ovid feel proud to drive through these streets, and it makes visitors feel welcome.” 

Location: Main St, Ovid, MI 

“The MEDC is proud to celebrate the places that make our state great and support the vibrancy of small towns throughout the Lansing area through the Small Town Enhancement Grant Program,” said Michele Wildman, chief place officer of Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “On behalf of the MEDC, congratulations to the grantees. We look forward to seeing the impact these projects have on further strengthening the economic vitality of their communities.”

About LEAP

The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is a coalition of area leaders partnering to build a stronger community for all — working every day to grow, retain and attract business to the Lansing, Michigan, region.