separates Saginaw Township from the rest is really the old cliche piece of a big city worth of assets in a small town feel,” adds Township Manager Brian Rombalski, “we very much pride ourselves on that.” This ethos extends to economic resilience. The township balances legacy small businesses, like 80-year-old Wohlfeil Hardware, with modern incentives, greenfield investment opportunities, and infrastructure ready for growth. From revitalized corridors to a nationally recognized soccer complex, Saginaw Township leverages its partnerships, location, and proactive leadership to attract residents and businesses alike. STRATEGIC INVESTMENTS DRIVING GROWTH Saginaw Township is executing targeted development projects to enhance livability and economic vitality. The State Street Corridor Project, a decade-long revitalization effort, aims to transform the area into a township “jewel,” says Fahndrich.“We want to give it a real nice new life, a new look,” with modern lighting, benches, and entry signs along the 3.5mile state highway. The project, funded by property value increases in the business district, reflects the township’s commitment to attracting investment. Recreation infrastructure is also a priority.A $500,000 DNR grant, matched by township funds, will replace aging playscapes with ADA-compliant facilities. “We’re really focusing on building up our park infrastructure,” explains Assistant Manager Kelsey Adkins, noting collaboration with school districts and a new Parks and Rec Director to innovate green spaces. Behind the scenes, critical infrastructure ensures sustainable growth. A county-wide road millage allocates $19 million for local road improvements over five years. Utilities are equally proactive, with $20 million from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation allocated to expand wastewater treatment capacity.“We’ve set ourselves up to avoid and mitigate risks of failed infrastructure,” says Rombalski, emphasizing 24/7 staff readiness. These investments create a foundation for residential and commercial expansion. A BUSINESS CLIMATE BUILT FOR GROWTH Saginaw Township offers diverse opportunities for commercial investment, including 300 acres of greenfield land primed for development.“We’ve got utility services ready to go,” says Rombalski, noting the sites’ suitability for tech, manufacturing, or medical arts.“You can build exactly what you want.” The township’s small business ecosystem thrives through both legacy enterprises and strategic partnerships. Fahndrich points to Wohlfeil Hardware’s 80-year success as evidence.“They are in the shadows of Menards and yet are very successful,” he says. “I 3 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 SAGINAW TOWNSHIP, MI
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx