Long-vacant building to be redeveloped in downtown Houghton

What’s happening: A long-vacant building in downtown Houghton will be vacant no more, thanks to Sisu Ventures and its planned renovations at 111 Shelden Ave. in the Upper Peninsula city. Plans call for the development of two second-story residential units and activation of ground floor retail space for the dormant structure.

Widespread support: The redevelopment of 111 Shelden Ave. has garnered support from both the city and the state, with each contributing money and resources toward the project.

The Michigan Strategic Fund is contributing a $350,709 Michigan Community Revitalization Program performance-based grant toward the project, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has announced. And the city of Houghton has committed to making improvements to both an adjacent city parking deck and the water line leading to the building, representing approximately $28,500 in upgrades.

Partnerships make it happen: “Sisu Ventures is excited to bring this historic building to life again. The Community Revitalization Program and the partnership with the MEDC and the city of Houghton were instrumental in making this a reality,” says Sisu Ventures co-owner Brendan Jacques. “We look forward to bringing high quality residential housing and increased retail activity to an already vibrant block of Shelden Ave.”

Why it’s popular: The project at 111 Shelden Ave. is expected to generate a capital investment of $943,005, increase density in downtown Houghton, activate a well-positioned vacant building, and perhaps spur additional developments in the area, according to the MEDC. 

“The city of Houghton is looking forward to the reactivation of this building and the added vibrancy it will bring to that block,” says City Manager Eric T. Waara. “Sisu’s investment along with MEDC’s financial support of the project will further the growth and continued success of downtown Houghton.”