Benton Harbor City Commissioners have moved forward on two housing developments planned in the community. During a Monday meeting, they discussed Project T, a development planned for the former Mercy Hospital site. Project T is a $33 million effort of Harbor Habitat and Renovare in Detroit to build 100 housing units and commercial space on Agard and Weld Streets. Mayor Marcus Muhammad is for it.
“This is an opportunity for us, the city of Benton Harbor, to accommodate not just low income, but also people who want to move into a new home and also commercial space for those who may want to go into business,” Muhammad said.
Commissioners Monday considered an Ordinance for Payment in Lieu of Taxes for Project T, which would exempt the low income portion of the development from the usual taxes. They considered the same for Corner at Wall Street, which Muhammad said would be a $20 million, 55 unit housing development for low and mixed incomes with a grocery store.
“It’ll be the only grocery store in the city of Benton Harbor, 4.4 square miles, housed in a 55 unit development that will accommodate residents who need supportive housing.”
There was much debate about Project T, with Commissioners Juanita Henry, Mary Alice Adams, and Ethel Clark Griffin voting against the ordinance for it. A majority still voted to approve it. Corner at Wall Street had more support with a representative on hand saying its grocery store would offer fresh meat and produce and the development itself would offer supportive services like mental health treatment and medical services.
