LANSING, Mich. –(June 18, 2025)—The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), proudly announces the successful completion of its first ever Small Town Enhancement Grant Program, which invested nearly $90,000 across five rural communities in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties.
Launched in early 2024, the program empowered small towns to breathe new life into community spaces that define local identity and economic potential. With projects now complete, the results speak volumes—showcasing how targeted investments can foster pride, encourage gathering, and create lasting impact.
“We believe that thriving, beautiful places are a cornerstone of economic growth,” said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP. “This program proves that with the right support, our small towns can build spaces that preserve their charm while embracing the future.”
“Everyone was really excited to hear the bell ring again,” said Becky Austin, Vermontville village clerk when referring to the town’s historic bell tower dating back to 1862. “This building has always been a gathering place. It means so much to our community to see it restored and honored.”
The project was celebrated with a community ribbon-cutting in November, capping off a journey that began with LEAP’s traveling “Small Town Road Show” and check presentation earlier in the summer.
Over in Maple Rapids, local favorite Phillips Cider Bar & Pizzeria received a long-overdue facelift, restoring the façade of the 120-year-old building while maintaining its vintage appeal. The revitalization is already helping reenergize the small town’s downtown corridor.
“We’ve had people stop by while local contractors were still finishing the job—just to say how excited they were,” said Gregg Smyth, owner of Phillips Cider Bar & Pizzeria. “This grant helped us invest in the town we love. There’s new energy here, and it’s just the beginning.”
The project was unveiled during a November ribbon cutting that drew crowds and cemented the site’s renewed role as a centerpiece of the community.
Other completed projects include the City of Ovid, which enhanced Main Street with new banners; the City of Leslie, which installed a new community pavilion; and the Village of Stockbridge, where a $25,000 grant transformed a vacant patio area next to Village Hall into a walkable community space designed for relaxation and connection.
LEAP is working to ensure every community in the Lansing region has a gathering space to make memories with loved ones, and access to enhancement resources that will instill pride in the town for generations to come. To learn more about the Small Town Enhancement Grant program and see before and after photos of the project, click here.
If the community you represent would benefit from a program like this, please complete our interest form to begin your journey!
