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.
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.
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.
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.