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The Regional Economic Innovation (REI) program at Michigan State University’s Center for Community and Economic Development is pleased to announce the selection of three Student-Led, Faculty-Guided (SLFG) projects for 2026, led by Dr. Jesus J. Lara, Professor of Urban and Regional Planning in the School of Planning, Design, and Construction at Michigan State University.
Student-Led, Faculty-Guided projects provide applied research and technical assistance to Michigan communities working to advance local and regional economic development initiatives. Through this model, student teams, under the supervision of experienced MSU faculty, apply classroom knowledge to real-world planning and development challenges, while communities and economic development professionals receive valuable analytical, planning, and engagement support that may not otherwise be available.
The funded 2026 projects reflect a focus on community engagement, climate adaptation, and neighborhood revitalization:
East Village Community Engagement & Preliminary Planning Concepts: East Lansing
This project will assist the City of East Lansing in updating the East Village plan to better reflect current commercial and residential market conditions. The practicum team will design and implement a comprehensive community engagement strategy involving residents, landowners, and businesses, and develop preliminary planning concepts informed by that engagement. The work will also identify barriers to implementation, including zoning or regulatory considerations, in support of the City’s vision for a student-oriented, mixed-use district.
Assessing Bus Stop Shade Coverage and Potential for Improvements to Support Climate Adaptation: Grand Rapids
This project will conduct a citywide inventory of bus stops in Grand Rapids to assess existing shade coverage and identify opportunities for improvements, such as shade trees or shade structures, to enhance comfort and accessibility for transit users. The resulting baseline dataset will inform future planning for pedestrian and transit amenities, with particular attention to the City’s Neighborhoods of Focus (NOF) to support equitable climate adaptation and infrastructure investment.
A Better Martin Park Neighborhood Plan: Flint
This initiative will produce a comprehensive neighborhood revitalization plan centered on housing repair, blight elimination, infrastructure improvements, and expanded economic opportunity for residents. Grounded in community engagement and aligned with citywide priorities related to health, safety, youth development, and economic mobility, the project will deliver a strategic roadmap for sustainable neighborhood transformation.
To learn more, please visit: https://reicenter.org/projects/current-projects
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