Lansing · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lansing public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Michigan Avenue Corridor 2026 activities update
The raingardens along Michigan Avenue aren't being maintained at all. The committee may organize county, city, Peckham and MSU partners — or volunteers — to fix that, and might make it a budget priority.
Saginaw Street Corridor 2026 Activities
Several art projects are moving: a traffic cabinet vinyl-wrap plan headed to MDOT, a mural planned by Amy's Catering, and finished Durant Park mural installations. Public art aims to brighten and brand the corridor.
Downtown Lansing, Inc. Board Appointment
Mayor Schor has recommended Christopher Buck of the Gillespie Group for a seat on the Downtown Lansing, Inc. Board through June 2027. The board helps guide downtown revitalization efforts.
Virtual currency machine licensing
Bitcoin kiosks popping up around the city can be a scam vector for seniors. A draft ordinance would require operators to get licensed and pay an annual fee, since the state doesn't regulate these machines.
Business grant program
The board is weighing whether to put more ARPA money toward aesthetic and design improvements, and businesses along the corridor can still apply for enhancement grants.
Corridor banner installation delay
Marketing efforts and distinctive street sign toppers aim to build the Saginaw Street corridor's identity. Earlier work included a letter to the public transportation group and a push to engage MDOT.
Downtown Lansing Viability and Mikado Club
DLI is exploring a program to add hospitality and cleanliness services downtown, potentially funded by a $250,000 city allocation from state security funding, Capital City Allocation money, and equipment sale proceeds. A pilot could launch as early as spring 2027.
Community Reinvestment Act rule changes
Proposed 2026 changes to federal CRA rules could affect downtown Lansing investment; DLI will join letters asking regulators and Congress to reconsider.
Children's Savings Program Grant (CEDAM)
A state grant through CEDAM will support a children's savings program aimed at helping Lansing kids plan and save for education after high school.
LEDC Budget and Economic Development
The authority's contract with the Lansing EDC for staff support couldn't be approved at the June meeting due to lack of quorum, and board members wanted attorney review and clearer hour definitions before signing.
Eastside Summer Festival and Fall Festival planning
MACIA plans a booth at the Eastside Summer Festival and is considering closing Michigan Avenue between Clemens and Magnolia for the Fall Festival. Sparrow reportedly supports the road closure.
Trinity Lutheran Church exterior improvement grant
The board approved a business grant supporting Trinity Lutheran Church's ongoing exterior improvements, a visible upgrade on the Saginaw Street corridor.
LDFA Budget FY 2027
The Local Development Finance Authority budget for next fiscal year costs the city nothing — the tax capture structure results in zero impact on Lansing's property tax revenues.
Old Town social district expansion
A proposal to extend the Old Town social district boundary to include Parking Lot 56 and the Brenke Fish Ladder Music Park was referred to committee.
Ovation Music Venue Construction
The $28 million concert venue and media center project is back on budget after a design-build pivot, with the 520 S. Washington building occupied in March 2026 and venue opening targeted for March 2027; fundraising continues for first-year operations.
$4.3M state grant for Reo Town
The city landed $4.3 million from the Michigan Talent Partnership Program for Reo Town — wayfinding, lighting, safer pedestrian and bike access, park and river access, and small business support.