Revitalization and Placemaking Program (RAP) - Public Place-Based Infrastructure (Individual Projects)

The Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Program is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to proactively deploy state funding to address community revitalization needs across Michigan. The Public Place-Based Infrastructure (individual projects) track provides development gap financing to invest in permanent, place-based public infrastructure that enables population and tax revenue growth. The program aims to create amenity-rich, walkable, vibrant mixed-use environments that attract and retain talent, spur business creation and attraction, and provide community gathering spaces associated with traditional downtowns, social zones, outdoor dining, and public spaces.

To be eligible, projects must develop permanent place-based public infrastructure located in or contributing to a traditional downtown, central business district, neighborhood commercial node, or adjacent walkable neighborhood. The property must be owned and maintained by a municipality or community-focused non-profit, or held under verified site control such as a long-term easement or purchase agreement. The space must be a physical location generally open and accessible to the public without cost and maintained for the public good. Commercial or revenue-generating activities cannot consume the entire space and must contribute directly to the ongoing vibrancy and sustainability of the public asset.

Eligible applicants include municipal entities, economic development organizations, Downtown Development Authorities, local Land Bank Fast Track Authorities, local units of government, and non-profit organizations. Applications are evaluated based on broad local support, alignment with local master plans and economic strategies, project readiness (complete designs, recent cost estimates dated within six months, local approvals, and secured matching funds), universal design and accessibility, four-season programming, cultural and recreational opportunities, and long-term maintenance partnerships. Submissions must include a formal letter of support from the local economic development organization and the highest municipal official explaining maintenance responsibility and funding.

Applications are submitted competitively through the MEDC online application system during announced application windows. Prospective applicants are encouraged to coordinate with their regional MEDC Community Development Manager prior to application submittal to verify project eligibility and alignment with regional target priorities.