KALAMAZOO (WKZO-AM) — U.S. Sen. Gary Peters stopped in Kalamazoo on Monday to tout legislation aimed at bolstering the economies, housing, tourism, and recreational opportunities in riverfront and lakefront communities.
The Democrat said Kalamazoo’s River’s Edge District is a example of how riverfront development can spark growth throughout a city, pointing to places like the Arcadia Brewery and Kalamazoo’s Mayors’ Riverfront Park.
He claimed his Waterfront Community Revitalization and Resiliency Act will help similar places throughout the country by setting aside about $50 million annually for development.
“This bill deals specifically with planning grants, and it provides grants that communities can apply for, then use that money to make plans as to how to utilize their waterfront properties,” Peters said on Monday.
He toured the area with Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell, representatives with Kalamazoo County’s parks foundation and the founder of Arcadia Ales.
– Anthony Pollreisz
