Downtown BC

Restore (269) Receives $1.5 Million Grant from MEDC for Anson Hotel Project

by

PRESS RELEASE

Restore (269) Receives $1.5 Million Grant from MEDC for Anson Hotel Project
Development will bring housing, food co-op to downtown Battle Creek
Tuesday, July 25, 2023

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in announcing Michigan Strategic Fund approval of a wide range of projects, including two new manufacturing facilities by innovative glass products manufacturer LuxWall, two new facilities by electric truck manufacturer Bollinger Motors, expansions by Michigan companies Magna and Vantage Plastics, a new spec building in Romulus, placemaking projects in Battle Creek and Pontiac, and other actions that will further strengthen Michigan’s economy and startup ecosystem. The projects approved today represent a total capital investment of nearly $452 million across Michigan.

“We are strengthening Michigan’s economy by bringing good jobs to Michigan residents, expanding on our leadership in mobility and next generation manufacturing, building on our inventory of investment-ready facilities, supporting sustainability efforts, creating vibrant communities, and investing in initiatives that will ensure long-term economic opportunity for businesses in the state,” said Governor Whitmer. “Let’s keep competing to win projects that bring good-paying, high-skill jobs home so everyone, in any community, can ‘make it’ in Michigan. Together, we will continue sending a clear message that Michigan is open for business and building on our momentum.”

Anson Building, LLC plans to redevelop the historic, former Anson Hotel located at 119 West Michigan Avenue into a mixed-use development in downtown Battle Creek. When completed, the project will include eight housing units and 4,500 square feet of commercial space. The commercial space is anticipated to be the home of Sprout BC Co-Op Market, which will help bring fresh food access to downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

The building has been vacant since 1997 and has been slated for demolition three separate times due to exposure to the elements. To stabilize the property and attract a new private development partner, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) purchased the building and installed a new roof in 2020. The development team will leverage BCU’s investment to complete the restoration and activation of the building.

“The redevelopment and restoration of this historic property in our hometown, Battle Creek, will add downtown vibrancy and address two voids in our community,” said Restore (269) Developer Caitlynn Newman. “The market on the first floor will provide fresh food and goods to the community, and the 8 uniquely designed apartments will add more housing options to the downtown neighborhood. We greatly appreciate the MEDC’s support for this development as the project would not be possible without it.”

In addition to historically preserving a highly visible building located on the west end of downtown Battle Creek, the project will also add needed housing and food access to the community. In addition, it will increase density and walkability and will serve as a catalyst for additional development in the area.

The project is expected to generate a total capital investment of $3 million and create 10 full-time equivalent jobs, supported by a $1.5 million Michigan Community Revitalization Program performance-based grant.

“We are thrilled to see the Anson Building put back into productive use after many years of being vacant and are very excited for what this project means for the continued momentum building in Downtown Battle Creek,” said Battle Creek Unlimited President & CEO Joe Sobieralski. “We are grateful to the MEDC for their support in making this project happen and to the Developers, Restore269 and tenants, Sprout for their combined vision of bringing additional housing and foods option to Downtown Battle Creek.”

The city of Battle Creek has approved a 12-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act tax abatement valued at $530,000 in support of the project. Additionally, Battle Creek Unlimited is selling the property to the development team for $1.00 and has previously invested in the property to make redevelopment possible. The city of Battle Creek is certified with MEDC’s Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) program.

“The city of Battle Creek is thrilled to see the planned renovation and restoration of the former Anson Hotel,” said Battle Creek Assistant City Manager Ted Dearing. “Many local residents have a personal connection to the building and its former owners, so it means quite a bit to the community to see it come back to life. We are grateful for the support from the MEDC for this project and for the investments from our local economic development partner, Battle Creek Unlimited and the developer. This project will preserve a historic structure and help catalyze redevelopment in our downtown.”

Click here for the full release: https://rb.gy/i2tr8

Concept design for the redeveloped Anson Hotel building on Michigan Avenue.

Battle Creek Unlimited Secures Critical Financing for McCamly Hotel Renovation

by

Battle Creek Unlimited Secures Critical Financing for McCamly Hotel Renovation

The MEDC will provide a $7.5 million loan from the Michigan Community Revitalization Program

BATTLE CREEK, Mich.—Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) has secured a critical piece of financing for its renovation of the former McCamly Plaza Hotel. On Tuesday, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) announced that the Michigan Strategic Fund has approved $7.5 million in assistance from the Michigan Community Revitalization Program (MCRP).

The program promotes community revitalization and provides gap funding for projects that are either contaminated (facility), blighted, functionally obsolete, or historic resources. The MCRP award for the McCamly Hotel renovation is in the form of a performance-based loan, to be repaid at 1 percent interest.

The property originally opened in 1982 as the Stouffer Hotel. The hotel is in the heart of downtown Battle Creek, one block from the global headquarters of the Kellogg Company. It is adjacent to the Kellogg Arena, a 6,200-seat multi-purpose venue.

The facility is being converted into a DoubleTree by Hilton. When complete, it will feature 239 guest rooms; a new restaurant, beer garden, and kitchen; and a new ballroom and conference facilities. The exterior of the building is being refreshed and will have a new entrance, new windows, and an updated façade. All the hotel mechanical systems are being replaced, including the HVAC, boilers, and elevators. The project is expected to cost $59 million and will create 165 new jobs.

Along with the MCRP award, local partners have pledged nearly $30 million to the hotel project and adjacent development. Commitments include:

·      Battle Creek Unlimited Cash & Other Grants $1,000,000+
·      Bronson Battle Creek Hospital $200,000
·      Calhoun County (American Rescue Plan Act funds) $2,000,000
·      Calhoun County Visitor Bureau $400,000
·      City of Battle Creek (American Rescue Plan Act funds) $2,500,000
·      Consumers Energy Foundation $250,000
·      Kellogg Company $300,000
·      Miller Foundation $1,000,000
·      State of Michigan (General Fund Appropriation) $2,000,000
·      W.K. Kellogg Foundation $20,000,000

In addition, the Battle Creek City Commission approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act tax abatement valued at $3.23 million.

As a part of the project, BCU is working with Grand Valley State University and Kellogg Community College to create a restaurant and hospitality career program. The program will provide on-the-job training and enable students to build meaningful careers in the hospitality sector.

Erick Stewart, Chair of BCU’s Board of Directors, said, “The McCamly Hotel has played a vital role in Battle Creek for 40 years. The facility has hosted countless weddings, proms, conferences, and business meetings. With these sweeping renovations, it will once again be the premiere hotel and conference facility in the region. When the hotel reopens next year, it will be something that everyone in Battle Creek will be proud of.”

BCU President & CEO Joe Sobieralski said, “This is the latest piece in BCU’s ongoing effort to revitalize downtown. This project will have a transformative impact on Battle Creek and will bring new opportunities to our community. We are grateful to our community partners, the State of Michigan, and the MEDC for supporting our vision for Battle Creek.”

To see a video of the plan for the hotel, visit https://streamable.com/ndijyi.

###

ABOUT BATTLE CREEK UNLIMITED

Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek and manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park. The Fort Custer Industrial Park is home to over 80 businesses, including 25 international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation.

MEDIA CONTACT

Joe Sobieralski

President & CEO

Battle Creek Unlimited

TEL 269-962-7526

15 Carlyle Building Awarded to Restore (269) and Startup Brewery Awarded $200,000 to Locate in Facility

by
Tuesday, May 01, 2018

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

May 1, 2018

Battle Creek, Michigan – Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) has awarded the building at 15 Carlyle Street to local developer Restore (269).  Restore (269) plans to renovate the three story building and convert the space into a brewery on the first floor, office space on the second floor, and a multipurpose event space on the third floor.

In December 2017, BCU announced a request for proposals for three buildings in downtown Battle Creek. At the same time, BCU announced a $200,000 incentive to attract a brewery/distillery to downtown Battle Creek.  As a result of their proposal, Restore (269) will assume ownership of 15 Carlyle and rebrand it the Record Box, a nod to its historic past. The building was originally built for the Record Printing and Box Company, a manufacturer of paper cartons and boxes for breakfast foods.

BCU will award an additional $200,000 incentive to a startup brewery, which will occupy 6,000 square feet on the ground floor. This brewery expects to be up and running by fall 2019. This is the second announcement, of three, regarding new developments in downtown Battle Creek.

Restore (269) was founded by Battle Creek residents Cody and Caitlynn Newman in 2017 as a mechanism to restore the Battle Creek community through building restoration and development. Its namesake 269 refers to the area code for Battle Creek. Less than a year ago, the Newmans purchased the Ratti Building at 115-117 W. Michigan Avenue, located in the heart of downtown Battle Creek. Restore (269) transformed the property into a hip mixed-use space, with commercial and residential tenants. The building even includes a loft apartment which can be rented on Airbnb, showcasing downtown living.

“We wanted to continue this positive momentum and restore another historic building in downtown Battle Creek,” the Newmans stated. “Being a part of Battle Creek, we see opportunities for growth and hope to have some positive impact on our community. There are a lot of exciting projects happening in our city and we are thankful to be a part of it.”

BCU President & CEO Joe Sobieralski said, “Battle Creek is fortunate to have millennial visionaries like Cody and Caitlynn who are able to look into the future and see the potential in Battle Creek. The Newmans have the drive and desire to be a part of it.”  He added, “BCU is doubling down on our brewery incentive. We received a number of strong proposals, and we feel multiple options are needed in downtown to help make Battle Creek a destination.”  The Record Box will be located one block from New Holland’s Pub, which will sit at 64. W. Michigan Avenue.

Battle Creek City Manager Rebecca Fleury commented, “We couldn’t be happier to see Cody and Caitlynn continue to invest in and reimagine downtown Battle Creek! The Record Box will create an additional gathering space to allow people to enjoy not only the historic character of the Carlyle building, but also the beauty of the Battle Creek River. The excitement around all the great things happening in Battle Creek just keeps growing.”

Restore (269) will host an open house on May 18 from 5:00 – 9:00 pm. This coincides with the Spring into the Arts event to be held in downtown Battle Creek.  The community is invited to attend.  Further information regarding the future plans for the Record Box will be shared at that time.

Click on the links below to see the renderings.

First Floor
Second Floor
Third Floor
Exterior

###

About Battle Creek Unlimited
Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek and manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park.  The Fort Custer Industrial Park is home over 80 businesses, including 25 international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation.

Media Contacts
Cody and Caitlynn Newman, Restore (269) Co-Founders
restore269bc@gmail.com
www.facebook.com/restore269
TEL 269-753-8040

Joe Sobieralski, BCU President and CEO
sobieralski@bcunlimited.org
TEL 269-962-7526

New Holland Brewing Awarded $200,000 Incentive for New Battle Creek Location

by
Friday, April 20, 2018

 

    

 

PRESS RELEASE

 

April 20, 2018
 

New Holland Brewing Awarded $200,000
Incentive for New Battle Creek Location
 

Battle Creek, Michigan – Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) will award $200,000 in incentives to New Holland Brewing Company in support of a new location in Battle Creek. New Holland is known for its award-winning beer and spirits. The company operates the New Holland Pub on 8th Street in Holland and the Knickerbocker in Grand Rapids as well as a production facility in Holland.

In December 2017, BCU announced a request for proposals for three buildings in downtown Battle Creek. In addition, BCU announced a $200,000 incentive for a new brewery/distillery. As a result of its proposal, New Holland will take ownership of the building located at 64 W Michigan Avenue. The property is centrally located in historic downtown Battle Creek, steps away from the headquarters of the Kellogg Company.

New Holland Brewing Company was founded in 1997 in Holland, Michigan. The company’s goal was to produce beer that was uniquely West Michigan. Over the past 20 years, the company has become one of Michigan’s largest craft brewers. New Holland is known for Dragon’s Milk Bourbon Barrel Stout, Mad Hatter IPA and seasonal brews like Cabin Fever and Ichabod. In 2005, the company began distilling whiskey, rum and gin, with sales beginning in 2008. Today, New Holland sells its beer and spirits across 38 states and 4 countries.

New Holland’s President and Founder Brett VanderKamp stated, “We are pleased to expand our footprint into Battle Creek and look forward to partnering with the community to bring a vibrant venue, authentic beer and spirits, and quality service to downtown Battle Creek. We see several key downtown projects on the horizon as a turning point for downtown Battle Creek and are excited to be a part of the equation.”

New Holland’s plans for The Pub in Battle Creek include onsite brewing and distilling; lunch and dinner options; a seasonal beer garden; retail; and possibly a coffee bar. Renovations to the building are expected to begin in summer of 2018, with construction anticipated to be completed by spring 2019. Once fully operational, The Pub expects to employ approximately 50 people.

BCU President & CEO Joe Sobieralski said, “The New Holland team sees great opportunity in our City. Their proposal was outstanding and we truly hit a homerun with New Holland and their leadership team. The New Holland Brewing team will invest substantially into the property as they work to remodel this prime downtown location into their newest facility. We are beyond excited to have New Holland set up shop in downtown Battle Creek.”

Battle Creek City Manager Rebecca Fleury said, “We are honored and thrilled that New Holland has recognized the great potential in Battle Creek. Their partnership will help bring our spectacular downtown into the spotlight. They understand the importance of place and will build on the synergy that is already underway. We look forward to collaborating with New Holland to further build upon our culture of vitality in Battle Creek.”

###

About Battle Creek Unlimited
Established in 1972, Battle Creek Unlimited is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development arm for the City of Battle Creek and manages the Fort Custer Industrial Park.  The Fort Custer Industrial Park is home over 80 businesses, including 25 international companies, and employs over 13,000 people. BCU’s mission is to build a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation.

Media Contacts:
Sheila Cunningham, Director of Administrative Operations
sheila@newhollandbrew.com

Joe Sobieralski, BCU President and CEO
sobieralski@bcunlimited.org
269-962-7526

Battle Creek Unlimited and Aries Capital, LLC affiliate Finalizes Deal for DoubleTree Hotel in Downtown Battle Creek

by
  • Wednesday, January 10, 2018
    Battle Creek, Mich. – Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) is pleased to announce that the McCamly Plaza Hotel will officially become a Hilton DoubleTree branded hotel. After an extensive renovation in excess of $3,500,000, underwritten by the Direct Investment Fund (DIF), the number of hotel rooms will be reduced from 239 to 179.  In addition, the owners plan to add approximately 50 apartment units, including some that may be furnished as Corporate Apartments as part of the renovation.  Renovations of the hotel are expected to be completed by fall of 2018.

    The DIF is a revolving loan fund managed by BCU for the purpose of generating jobs and investment in Battle Creek. DIF funds are also invested in the Heritage Tower project in downtown Battle Creek.

    BCU President & CEO Joe Sobieralski is excited for this announcement.  “It is tremendously important that we have a large international hotel brand in downtown Battle Creek,” stated Sobieralski.  “Converting it to a Hilton property is a proud moment for our community as we continue to work to build a brighter future for downtown Battle Creek.”

    FRA Investors/NDF Battle Creek, LLC, an affiliate of Chicago based Aries Capital, LLC, became the sole owner of the McCamly Hotel in 2017. Aries affiliated companies have a significant portfolio of hotel properties across the country.  According to Neil Freeman, Chairman of Aries Capital, “We are excited to bring the quality of Hilton and Doubletree to downtown Battle Creek. The new restaurant, bar, pool, fitness center and lobby will become the place to be in Battle Creek. We believe adding the urban style apartments to the hotel will bring 24 hour life to downtown.”
    Since its opening in the fall of 1981, The McCamly Plaza has gone through several ownership and name changes, but it has always remained a staple in Battle Creek.  Battle Creek Unlimited is proud to play a role in continuing that heritage.

    About Battle Creek Unlimited
    Battle Creek Unlimited is a private, non-profit corporation which serves as the economic development organization for the City of Battle Creek.  Battle Creek Unlimited is committed to building a strong community by driving strategic investment and job creation.

    Media Contacts:
    Joe Sobieralski, BCU President & CEO
    269-962-7526
    ###

Request for Proposals on Downtown Buildings

by
Friday, December 15, 2017

Battle Creek Unlimited seeks request for proposals from reputable, experienced developers who have the interest and capacity to revitalize downtown properties at: 15 Carlyle Street, 64 W. Michigan Avenue, and 119 W. Michigan Avenue.

Interested parties should click on the links below for the request for proposal information for each property:

Proposals will be accepted through Friday, March 2, 2018.

Contact Us

  • Email Sign up

Our Partners

City of Battle Creek Logo for BCU
WK Kellogg Foundation logo for BCU
Battle Creek Area Chamber Logo
The Miller Foundation
Visitors Bureau