Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities
Student-Led, Faculty-Guided Project - 2025
Authors: Zach Gillespie, Chloe Halverson, Jalen Hardimon, Kelsey Herdus, Myron Ocansey
The Lansing Riverfront Activation Project is an implementation-focused plan developed by the MSU Urban and Regional Planning Practicum Team in partnership with the Lansing Economic Development Corporation (EDC). The goal of this report is to outline strategies to transform Lansing’s riverfront into a more vibrant, accessible, and economically productive space, with a focus on implementing immediate, actionable interventions. By prioritizing practical, high-impact strategies grounded in data and research, this plan aims to build momentum for sustained longterm redevelopment. The recommendations provided in this report focus on three key sites – Dietrich Park, Adado Riverfront Park, and the proposed pedestrian walkway site – chosen for their potential to catalyze broader riverfront revitalization. The key findings of this study are the result of thorough analysis of past planning initiatives, zoning and land use conditions, Lansing’s socioeconomic characteristics, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis, and a case study analysis. The team also conducted multiple site visits and community engagement efforts to gauge how residents interact with the riverfront. This report highlights the results of community interviews, survey, and meetings with key stakeholders, including the REO Town community visioning session, the Capital Region Community Foundation, and the Gillespie Group. The findings from this comprehensive research informed the recommendations made in this report.