LANSING, Mich. (March 5, 2024) — The Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) have selected Sen. John Cherry (D-Flint) to receive their 2024 Legislative Economic Development Champion award.
MEDA established the Legislative Economic Development Champion Award to recognize legislators championing economic growth and development. It acknowledges their support for statewide and local economic initiatives, efforts to secure program funding, active engagement with local economic development groups and sponsorship of legislation promoting economic development.
“I’m truly honored to receive this award,” said Sen. Cherry. “Being named a 2024 Economic Development Champion by MEDA is humbling. Promoting economic development for Flint and Genesee County is crucial in ensuring prosperity for residents. I remember when the Buick City site was in active production. While I appreciate a recognition of my efforts, I am proud to work to bring it back to productive use for the residents of the 27th district.”
Nominated by Tyler Rossmaessler of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance, Sen. Cherry received the award for his efforts in securing $5.9 million in state site readiness funds for the Flint Commerce Center at the historic former “Buick City” site in Flint. This 400-acre brownfield site, once home to over 25,000 employees, lies at the heart of the city of Flint.
The funding Sen. Cherry helped secure will significantly improve the economic development opportunities and marketability of the Buick City site by mitigating some of the serious risks identified by potential users who have chosen other sites. Site preparation includes removal of underground utilities, concrete slabs and foundations, and updating the sewer system.
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