A long-vacant property in downtown Flint is undergoing a $41-million transformation into Harrison Street Commons, a mixed-use development led by Uptown Reinvestment Corporation and HWD Harrison, Inc. Supported by $16 million in New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation from Michigan Community Capital (MCC), the 115,000-square-foot project will bring 50 apartments—19 designated as affordable housing—alongside 7,500 square feet of office space and a state-of-the-art YMCA. The YMCA will feature a lap pool, splash pad, basketball court, exercise studios, a track, locker rooms, and after-school program rooms, serving over 10,000 participants annually while driving economic revitalization.
“This development is part of the transformational change we strive for, bringing housing, walkability, and diverse building uses to Flint,” said Moses Timlin, Development Coordinator at Uptown Reinvestment Corporation.
Beyond housing and recreation, the project is expected to generate significant economic benefits, creating or retaining 51 full-time equivalent jobs. Key funding includes a $1.5-million Michigan Community Revitalization Program (MCRP) grant, a $5.5-million MCRP direct loan from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), a $2.9-million direct loan from Magnet Lending Corporation, and $4 million in NMTC allocation from PNC Bank. Additionally, the MEDC is supporting the project as part of its holistic, people-first approach to economic development, aiming to create vibrant, resilient communities across Michigan.
“The YMCA project will bring new life to downtown Flint, creating a vibrant, resilient community,” said Michele Wildman, Executive Vice President of Economic Development Incentives at MEDC. “We’re pleased to work with our partners to support this project and look forward to the additional investment it will inspire in other Flint neighborhoods.”
The City of Flint is supporting the project with a 30-year payment in lieu of taxes at 10 percent, valued at over $1.5 million. “This aligns with our Imagine Flint Master Plan to foster stable, inclusive neighborhoods,” said Suzanne Wilcox, Director of Planning and Development for Flint.
“This modern facility will serve Flint and Genesee County residents for years to come,” added Shelly Hilton, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Flint.
With strong public and private partnerships, Harrison Street Commons is a symbol of Flint’s resilience and a step toward a more dynamic and inclusive future.