Quarterly Overview:

2026 is off to a strong start for Manistee County. During the first quarter, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce continued advancing initiatives that support housing, childcare, business growth, workforce development, and placemaking while building momentum behind projects that strengthen long-term economic growth.


Key Highlights:

  • Riley Apartments: First residential units are expected to come online by late summer 2026, helping address critical housing needs.
  • Allen Edwin Homes Development: A 101-unit residential project in Manistee Township is advancing and currently pursuing support from the Manistee County Brownfield Authority.
  • New Childcare Center: A new childcare center in Manistee Township is anticipated to open soon, representing an important step forward in supporting working families and local employers.
  • River Street Streetscape Project: Construction is preparing to begin on the west end of River Street, enhancing safety, accessibility, and the overall downtown experience.



Looking Ahead:

With major housing, childcare, and placemaking projects progressing, the foundation is in place for continued investment, development, and measurable impact throughout 2026.

ADDITIONAL LINKS:

Michigan Labor Market Information: https://milmi.org/datasearch/LAUS

Employment and Wages Data Viewer: https://data.bls.gov/cew/apps/data_views/data_views.htm#tab=Tables

Women’s League of Voters Community Conversation: The Director of Economic Development participated in a panel discussion hosted by the League of Women Voters focused on property taxes and the services they support. At the organization’s request, a brief presentation was also provided outlining the types of services funded by property taxes that businesses and investors typically look for when evaluating a community.

Northern MI Chamber Alliance Policy Conference: Chamber Staff attended the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance Policy Conference, held in Traverse City. This was an opportunity to engage with regional stakeholders and elected officials to understand what policy priorities are for the Region. Additionally, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce moderated a panel discussion with Minority Leader Puri and Representative VanderWall, focusing on housing in Northern Michigan.

Gathering of Governments: The Chamber held a gathering of local government officials consisting of the City of Manistee City Council, Manistee County Commissioners, Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Downtown Development Authority. This event was intended to create a space to discuss and raise awareness for what projects and priorities are taking place in 2026. 

MDOT US-31 Rebuild Discussion: A community stakeholder discussion was held by the Michigan Department of Transportation in February to keep key community stakeholders informed as the US-31 rebuild project continues to progress toward construction.

Chris Doremus, Martin Marietta Magnesia Specialties

Jeff Dontz, Manistee County

Bill Gambill, City of Manistee

Carmen Kott, Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce

Sammie Lukaskiewicz, Manistee County Tourism Authority

Dennis McCarthy, Blarney Castle Oil & Propane

Michael Schrader, Little River Casino Resort

Peter Marinoff, Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital

Scott Ward, West Shore Community College/IDC

Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce | 400 River Street | Manistee, MI 49660 US

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