The village of Roscommon receives certification as Redevelopment Ready Community

Designation facilitates private investment, improves economic development opportunities

LANSING, Mich. – For their efforts in establishing a solid foundation to attract private investment and further build on community assets, MEDC formally recognizes the village of Roscommon as a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC) in Michigan. Roscommon joins an elite group of 60 Michigan communities in all corners of the state that have qualified as “thoroughly prepared” when it comes to planning and zoning, as part of a comprehensive effort to remove traditional barriers and promote opportunities for prospective investors. To see the entire list of Redevelopment Ready Communities, visit here.

“Our mission at MEDC is to support Michigan’s strong economic momentum and empower communities to establish a robust planning, zoning and economic development foundation,” said MEDC Senior Vice President Michele Wildman. “The village of Roscommon is well-positioned to continue to implement their vision for the future and further improve the quality of life for their residents. We look forward to building upon our relationship with the village and supporting their local efforts to remain an attractive community here in the state.”

As part of its journey to becoming RRC certified, the village of Roscommon received a comprehensive assessment that measured current community and economic development practices compared to RRC best practice standards. The program evaluates and certifies communities that integrate transparency, predictability, and efficiency into their economic development practices. Certification status is a compelling indicator that a community has removed development barriers and streamlined processes to be more competitive and attractive to investors.

“During the RRC certification process, our village learned who we are, who we want to be and how we are going to get there. A local businessman on our Economic Development Steering Team described Roscommon as a small town with big opportunities,” said Economic Development Administrator Daniel Scow. “Our team decided we want to be a walkable community with unique shopping, eating, employment, and living opportunities while keeping our small-town feel. We’ve put policies and procedures in place that will streamline responsible development in the village and help us get there. We’re looking forward to a bright future in Roscommon.”

As a certified community, Roscommon will have access to new tools to implement its community development goals as well as ongoing support such as strategic site redevelopment resources and technical assistance match funding opportunities from the Redevelopment Ready Communities team. Annual check-ins and updates will help ensure the village continues implementing the best practices over time. Certification is active for five years before needing to be renewed.

“The RRC certification opens up some positive opportunities for the village of Roscommon. There are a lot of economic challenges our community faces. This certification will help in areas that need growth.,” said Village President Michael Miller. “For example, we would be better equipped in attracting new businesses for our community, which will, in turn, create new job opportunities. Also, we want to tackle the need for affordable housing, just to name a few areas of concern. I want to commend and thank all those who work with and/or on our RRC Committee for your efforts in helping to strengthen our community.”

"By receiving this certification, it truly shows the dedication and commitment that we have in making the Village of Roscommon a true destination. We are a small village with big opportunities," said Village Manager Ron Alden.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.