What’s happening: A tour through Allegan County aims to break down barriers to housing development by bringing together the people who can make it happen
—all on one bus.
When will it take place: On Thursday, Aug. 7, the
Allegan County Community Foundation (ACCF) and Lakeshore Advantage will hold Developer Day 2025. It’s a full-day bus tour that will visit top locations for new homes and mixed-use buildings in five Allegan County communities. The event is sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and Lakewood Construction.
Why’s it important: Designed to address the county’s housing shortage, Developer Day will give developers, municipal leaders, real estate agents, and financial institutions an in-depth look at development-ready sites, infrastructure, and community priorities. Attendees will hear directly from local officials and planners about zoning, master plans, and community-driven strategies to support new construction.
What they’re saying: “Across Allegan, we have great local leaders leaning into creating opportunities for housing,” says Chris Kleinjans, community impact officer at ACCF. “Master plans and zoning guides are great resources, but there’s nothing like putting all the pieces together—landowners, municipal leaders, developers, and funders—and showing them the land and introducing them to the people who are ready to work
together.”
What they will see: The tour will feature everything from shovel-ready parcels to revitalization opportunities in village centers. Organizers say the goal is to build momentum and forge partnerships that move housing projects from concept to reality.
Participants will also get a behind-the-scenes look at active projects, offering context on market conditions and infrastructure readiness. The day’s agenda includes site visits, community presentations, and networking with stakeholders in housing, planning, and finance. Lunch and bus transportation will be provided.
What’s at stake: Developer Day 2025 underscores a solutions-focused approach to the region’s housing needs—one that unites the public and private sectors around shared goals and long-term impact.
“This event is about connecting the dots,” Kleinjans says. “We’re thrilled to partner with Lakeshore Advantage to spotlight some of the county’s most exciting development opportunities.”
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