Authority approves brownfield plan amendment for 132-unit Lake Eastbrook Apartments

The Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority voted to approve a brownfield plan amendment for the Lake Eastbrook Apartments redevelopment at 3538 Lake Eastbrook Boulevard SE, clearing the way for a 132-unit residential development largely funded in part by housing TIF-eligible brownfield activities.

Staff outlined project details: 84 one-bedroom and 48 two-bedroom units are planned, with a total project cost estimated at about $25 million and approximately $23.4 million in hard construction costs. The developer requested reimbursement for roughly $10,630,000 in eligible activity costs under the Brownfield housing TIF program. The proposal designates 60 of the 132 units (about 45.5%) as income-qualified at 95–100% of area median income for a 25-year period tied to the brownfield plan.

Developer representatives (including Scott, Spencer and Jared Belka) told the board the site—formerly home to the Orbit Room—has been underused and that they have the property under contract, with a hopeful closing in April pending approvals. They described a construction timeline beginning in 2026, first units delivered by late 2027 and project completion expected in early 2028.

Board members asked clarifying questions about unit sizes, parking ratios and the project's timeline. Staff noted goals for minority- and women-owned business participation (a combined inclusion goal reported as approximately 15.38% of hard construction costs, with specific MBE/WBE/MLBE percentages included in the packet). After discussion the board approved the resolution by voice vote.

The board did not adopt additional changes to the brownfield plan at the meeting; staff said they will confirm technical legal descriptions and finalize attachments where needed.