Published: November 08, 2009 08:15 am      

State seeks $290M for neighborhoods

LANSING, Mich. (AP) -- Michigan is seeking $290 million in federal money to help tear down blighted buildings and revitalize neighborhoods in 12 cities including Detroit, Grand Rapids and Flint.

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority has proposed launching the "New Michigan Urban Neighborhood" plan. Officials say the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development could decide on funding by Dec. 1.

Under the plan, money would be allocated to acquire and redevelop more than 6,000 foreclosed, abandoned and vacant properties in Michigan, demolish 2,500 structures and rehabilitate or build 1,500 homes.

Battle Creek, Benton Harbor, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Pontiac, Saginaw and Wyandotte also would be targeted for revitalization efforts under the plan.