A new development will dedicate a portion of its apartments to those experiencing chronic homelessness in northwestern lower Michigan.
The developers of “Annika Place II” will set aside 19 of the proposed 52 units in the building for those considered most vulnerable. In exchange, Traverse City will grant them a tax break.
The Northwestern Coalition to End Homelessness and Goodwill Northern Michigan, will also provide support like rental assistance.
Trained staff will also be on site to assist with mental and physical health services as well as employment opportunities.
“That can be anything from connecting them to mental health services, physical health services, to employment opportunities and really whatever the client deems as what they need to be able to maintain their housing,” said coalition chair Ashley Halladay-Schmandt.
The coalition wants to end chronic homelessness by 2028.
“And so this development will really take down our numbers and have a huge impact on our work,” Schmandt said.
Woda Cooper Companies, a developer in Mackinaw City, will build the units in Traverse City. A 16-year payment-in-lieu of tax plan was approved by Traverse City commissioners this week.
“Annika Place II” will be adjacent to Annika Place Apartments, an affordable housing project that broke ground last year.
Review Woda Cooper Companies proposal in its entirety, here.
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