Following a competitive review of the top submitted proposals, the Hart Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) heard from the top two finalists Tuesday afternoon and selected Wolverine Building Group’s “Lofts on Main” proposal as the preferred development for the 3 E. Main St. property in downtown Hart.
The TIFA board’s recommendation will be presented to the Hart City Council for consideration at its April 14 meeting. In accordance with TIFA bylaws, the city council must approve the conveyance of the property. Pending approval, the city will enter into negotiations with Wolverine Building Group to advance the project toward final design, approvals and construction.
“The 2.6-acre site, formerly part of the Ceres Solutions property acquired by TIFA in 2023, is an opportunity to redevelop nearly a full city block in a location that is just steps from Hart Lake, downtown shopping and dining,” Hart City Manager Nichole Kleiner said.
Wolverine Building Group’s proposal features 60 units, located in two, 24-unit buildings, and one, 12-unit building. The new development will not only provide new apartment housing, but ground-floor live/work options as well, meant to meet the housing needs of median-income renters. The development includes a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, modern architectural design, and a site layout that integrates green space and parking in a cohesive, pedestrian-friendly environment.
A recent analysis has identified a significant need for additional housing in Oceana County. The county’s rental market is operating at near-full capacity, with occupancy rates exceeding 98 percent and widespread waitlists, while limited inventory and affordability challenges continue to impact residents and employers. These conditions highlight the importance of new housing development to support workforce needs and sustain long-term economic growth in the Hart community.
The Hart TIFA board identified several strengths in the Wolverine proposal, including the overall quality and thoroughness of the submission; the architectural design and building style; confidence in the development team’s experience and ability to execute; and a clear, detailed project timeline. The board also expressed strong support for the layout of the buildings, green space, and parking, as well as the long-term vision for a potential Phase II expansion.
The selection followed a multi-phase process that included community input, release of a Request for Proposals and a reopened qualification period to ensure a strong and competitive pool of developers. The community’s vision consistently emphasized the need for quality housing, downtown vibrancy and long-term economic sustainability.
“TIFA was presented with three strong and thoughtful proposals, each bringing unique ideas to the table,” Kleiner said. “Wolverine’s ‘Lofts on Main’ stood out for its quality, completeness and readiness to move forward. The board had a high level of confidence in the team and their ability to deliver a project that will have a lasting impact on our downtown.”
Additional proposals were also submitted by Heyboer Bro Co. of Grandville and West Lake Homes Inc. of Grand Rapids. Heyboer’s concept proposed a modern, multi-building apartment development, “Water Street Apartments," with approximately 60 units and a future retail component, while West Lake Homes’ “The Mill” concept focused on a neighborhood-style layout featuring a mix of for-sale homes, townhomes and duplexes designed to complement the nearby residential character.
“This project has been a priority since TIFA acquired the site, and we’re excited to take this next step,” Kleiner added. “Redeveloping this property is about more than new housing - it’s about strengthening our downtown, supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities for residents and future growth.”
For more information and to view the submitted proposals, visit: www.takemetohart.org/ceres
