In collaboration with Michigan State University, Lansing has been selected as one of six Michigan communities to receive a placemaking grant through the Michigan Talent Partnership Program administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, or MEDC. With $4.35 million in grant funding, and an additional $1 million commitment from the city of Lansing, a project to revitalize Lansing’s REO Town is set to move forward.

This initiative, REO Town — Flowing with Innovations, was led by the Lansing Talent Partnership Consortium, a coalition of Lansing-based organizations, businesses and community stakeholders convened by the city of Lansing and the Lansing Economic Development Corporation.

In early 2025, state Sen. Sarah Anthony invited MSU to assist the consortium in developing the proposal.

With financial support from University Outreach and Engagement, or UOE, the consortium invited experts from MSU’s Center for Community and Economic Development, or CCED; the MSU Research Foundation; and the National Charrette Institute at MSU to participate in those conversations. The National Charrette Institute organized a REO Town Vision Community Workshop that brought together stakeholders, residents and partners. More than 60 individuals convened in REO Town to develop a shared vision and outline specific objectives for the proposal.

MSU President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., emphasized the broader return on public investment in the university, which translates to tangible economic benefits for the region.

“Michigan State University is committed to a vibrant, resilient mid-Michigan shaped by strong partnerships and shared purpose,” Guskiewicz said. “By working alongside the consortium and community stakeholders, MSU is helping advance Lansing’s REO Town Creative District in ways that translate public investment into real economic opportunity — from workforce development to small business growth. These collaborations lay the groundwork for sustained engagement and lasting impact in REO Town and across the region.”

Guided by local expertise, community insight and a shared commitment to revitalizing Lansing, the project aims to attract and retain talent by transforming public spaces and expanding opportunities for REO Town residents. The initiative focuses on strengthening local economic activation, legacy and learning, placemaking and identity, creative mobility, and community anchors. Planned improvements include many projects around the River Trail, Elm Street, and Washington Avenue.

John Melcher, associate director of CCED, participated in the community workshop as a representative of MSU. “We are looking forward to working with units and departments across MSU to make meaningful contributions to community building and placemaking in partnership with the REO Town community,” he said. “This includes engaging the university’s students and faculty in activities addressing everything from the creative and performing arts to housing, entrepreneurship and inclusive development.”

Anthony, chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, encouraged early collaboration among the state, MSU and community stakeholders.

“Investing in and creating vibrant, welcoming, walkable communities are key components of attracting and retaining talent across our great state. As Senate Appropriations chair, our goal when establishing the Michigan Talent Partnership Program was to do just that,” Anthony said in an MEDC release. “Anyone who has been to REO Town knows it is a perfect example of that vision in action, and I believe it holds tremendous, untapped potential.”

Kwesi Brookins, vice provost for UOE, highlighted the university’s role as a long-term partner in regional progress and the scholarly work within CCED and the Charrette Institute.

“It demonstrates one of the many roles MSU can play in supporting transformation by working side by side with community organizations,” he said. “It also contributes to helping to make Lansing an attractive place to live, work and play as we seek to grow and bring more talent to the area.”

Read the proposal for more information on the projects.