As an economic development professional from Genesee County, Michigan, Tyler Rossmaessler has received many questions throughout his career about the status of the property once known as Buick City. And – thanks to Ashley Capital’s recent investment at the former General Motors site – he finally has something to share.  

“The first building of the Flint Commerce Center is nearly complete,” said Rossmaessler, who serves as executive director of the Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance. “It offers 330,000 square feet of light industrial space, and it’s been exciting to see how much interest there’s been around its availability.” 

 While Rossmaessler anticipates that a lease will be signed soon, he notes that warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing companies should keep their eye on the property, which will provide a collective 3.5 million-square-feet of state-of-the-art light industrial space when complete. 

 Plans and bids are currently underway for the second phase of the center’s construction. Additionally, the site recently received a $5.9 million grant through the state’s Strategic Site Readiness Program. This will allow for the removal of underground utilities, concrete slabs, and foundations, and updating the sewer system. 

“This property is incredibly important to both the city of Flint and the state of Michigan,” Rossmaessler said. “The work happening at the new Flint Commerce Center is helping restore the economic health of this region and shifting the narrative in a positive way.” 

According to Rossmaessler, the redevelopment of this brownfield – one of the largest in Michigan – is a part of a multi-pronged approach to economic development in Flint & Genesee. He points to the Economic Alliance’s recent work in assembling the Advanced Manufacturing District of Genesee County, a large-scale site that features several qualities making it ideal for high-tech manufacturers.

“We know we need more inventory to bring in transformational projects,” Rossmaessler said. “Embracing both brownfield and greenfield development is essential for a holistic approach to our economic progress.” 

The Economic Alliance is currently marketing several properties to companies interested in being part of Flint & Genesee’s comeback story. To learn more about the region’s benefits and advantages, check out the Site Selection section of our website.