Officials broke ground on a 56-unit affordable housing development next to a community health center in Wyoming, Michigan.
Shea Ravines, which includes 20 permanent supportive housing (PSH) units, is adjacent to Cherry Health’s Wyoming Community Health Center.
“To address the housing shortage in the West Michigan area, we’re proud to break ground on the first phase of Shea Ravines. This project, named in honor of our prior CEO, Chris Shea, will culminate in a total of 112 affordable housing units on our Wyoming Community Health Center campus,” said Tasha Blackmon, president and CEO of Cherry Health. “Housing instability is a critical social determinant of health. If housing is stable, patients are more likely to show for appointments, which improves health outcomes.”
The organization is partnering with veteran developer Woda Cooper Cos. on the approximately $18 million development.
The PSH units are supported by rental assistance provided by the Grand Rapids Housing Commission.Nonprofit services provider Community Rebuilders of Grand Rapidswill coordinatesupportive services to assist these residents in achieving greater self-sufficiency.
The city of Wyoming approved a 3% payment in lieu of taxes, which helped make the development possible. In 2024, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) allocated housing tax credits to Shea Ravines to support the development financing.
“Shea Ravines represents exactly the kind of thoughtful, collaborative development Michigan needs more of, where quality, affordable housing is paired with critical wrap-around services,” said Chad Benson, MSHDA director of development. “At MSHDA, we’re proud to support this project through low-income housing tax credits and to work alongside dedicated partners like Woda Cooper and Cherry Health. Together, we’re creating homes that promote stability, dignity, and well-being for individuals and families across Wyoming and beyond.”
Marble Cliff Capital is the housing credit syndicator, and Independent Bank is providing a construction loan as well as a permanent mortgage.
The architect for Shea Ravines is Hooker DeJong, with general contracting by Woda Construction. Moore & Bruggink performed civil engineering. Leasing and property management will be performed by Woda Management & Real Estate.
Woda Cooper has developed 42 affordable communities in Michigan since 2005, with Shea Ravines being the first development in partnership with Cherry Health. Earlier this year, MSDHA allocated housing tax credits to support financing for Shea Ravines II, which will add 56 affordable multifamily units as a second phase at the same location.
