PROJECT OVERVIEW

This is a Transformational Brownfield Plan, that proposes the redevelopment of the former  the Mill contemplates a proposed mixed-use redevelopment to accommodate a brewery, taproom, restaurant, indoor performance and event spaces, craft food and beverage production areas, a brewery museum, and a mix of residential, hotel, commercial, retail, production and office spaces. Three development zones are envisioned: a historic zone; an event and production zone; and a conservation zone. The initial phase of the development will focus on the historic zone. The redevelopment will facilitate the planned connection of the eligible property via trails to the downtown business district and recreational opportunities to the south. The development plan proposes to balance sustainable landscape and environmental management with functional objectives for the mill complex with a focus on education related to its sustainable initiatives.  The conservation area will serve to protect the wetland and woodland features, including an existing heron rookery. Boardwalks and art installations will extend onto the less fragile areas of the conservation zone and to a reimagined borrow/gravel pit, improved with garden and landscape features.

The existing building will be renovated to include residential/hotel space, commercial space that will include a brewery and craft beverage area with public viewing, a museum, hop and malt processing, offices, educational facilities, and retail spaces; and indoor event space. The exterior will be developed with additional event spaces, beer garden, walkways and boardwalks, gardens and terraces.  The redevelopment will include revitalization of public infrastructure within utility easements to be owned and maintained by others.

The KCBRA, Village of Vicksburg, Schoolcraft Township, and Kalamazoo County, approved a Brownfield Plan that will allow for the reimbursement of $58,103,00 in “eligible activities” back to Paper City Development, LLC, through tax increment financing over 25 years. Some of the eligible activities included are site assessment activities, infrastructure improvements, hazardous materials abatement, and site preparation.

The mill redevelopment project will result in a stabilized historic building and a site that will advertise the Village of Vicksburg as a premier place to live, work and play.