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2018Year Built |
84Total Units |
The Berkshire–Muskegon is an 84-unit mixed-use senior housing community located at 1stand Clay in Downtown Muskegon. The 3-story brick building includes ground floor commercial space facing Clay, community space and resident amenities facing Webster and residential units in a courtyard configuration. AgeWell Services of West Michigan will occupy the 5,600 SF commercial space with offices and The Driftwood Café, a reduced cost food venue intended to serve the general public and area residents with limited incomes. The site produces a WalkScore® of 82, indicating a highly pedestrian environment that is convenient to shopping and services. The Muskegon Farmers Market, one of Michigan’s largest and longest operating open air markets, is only two blocks away.
The Berkshire – Muskegon was the first new development to be built under the city’s recently adopted “Form Base Code,” a progressive zoning tool intended to encourage more thoughtful urban design throughout Downtown Muskegon. The property falls into two “character areas,” each containing specific development parameters including “build to” setback lines, certain height and bulk restrictions and requirement for ground floor commercial space. One unique aspect of the process was that it was approved by City Staff, not requiring any commission or council approvals. The result is an urban, pedestrian-friendly building that fits comfortably into its downtown location.
Berkshire–Muskegon was funded with tax credit equity from US Bancorp Community Development Corporation and a permanent loan from Chemical Bank.
KEY THEMES
- Pioneering mixed-use development became the first project completed under Muskegon's Form Based Code, supporting a more walkable downtown environment
- Affordable senior housing integrates residential living, commercial space, and community services into a vibrant urban destination
- Strategic partnership with AgeWell Services expands access to wellness resources, social programming, and neighborhood dining opportunities
- LEED-certified design incorporates energy-efficient building systems and sustainable materials to promote long-term environmental performance
- Walkable downtown location provides convenient access to shopping, public transportation, community services, and the Muskegon Farmers Market
RESULTS
- Successfully delivered a mixed-use community featuring 84 senior apartments, including 68 affordable LIHTC residences
- Created approximately 5,600 SF of commercial space anchored by AgeWell Services and the public-serving Driftwood Café
- Established a LEED-certified senior living community with energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and modern resident amenities
- Developed an active independent living environment with fitness, wellness, social, and educational spaces designed for adults age 55+
- Strengthened downtown Muskegon through a highly walkable community that connects residents to local businesses, services, and public amenities
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