171 W. Michigan Avenue
Historic building yet completely renovated interior, located at a peak value intersection of Jackson. Original hardwood floors, tin ceilings remain
more information >>Building Your Future on the Past
Save money by building in Renaissance Zones
Renaissance Zones are virtually tax-free areas within Jackson County that are specifically designated to attract new business investment, development and job creation. These areas offer state and local tax exemption for up to 15 years from when they were designated. Most of these areas are former industrial sites with good roads and services available.
The tax benefits are already in place, and there is no application process necessary to qualify for the tax exemption. The only requirement is that a business or individual must not be delinquent in any state or local taxes in order to qualify for the tax-exempt status and must register with the local governmental assessing department.
Renaissance Zones are the most powerful market-based incentives available for businesses looking to relocate or expand their operations. However, their designation does not last forever. The areas in Jackson County specified as Renaissance Zones were granted their status on January 1, 2000 and were designated such status for 15 years. They will remain tax free for 12 of these years, with a gradual tax buildup over the last three years. Normal tax status is resumed after 2015.
Jackson County has three remaining Renaissance Zones ready for development:
The Former Goodyear Site
113 acres of industrial, commercial and residential zones. This site is well situated between two of Jackson’s major roads - Michigan Avenue and Page Avenue. The majority of the property lies within the City of Jackson, with portions in Blackman Township and Summit Township. 30 acres are ready for development immediately and services are available. This site is within 1.5 miles of U.S. 127 and within 3 miles of I-94.
The Armory Renaissance Zone
Approximately 35 acres all within the City of Jackson. The site houses the Armory Arts Village as well as one of the original Michigan State Prison buildings and two of the original prison walls. Redevelopment plans have been initiated by The Enterprise Group of Jackson to create the Armory Arts Project. Contact Ms. Jane Robinson, Director of Creative Industries for more information.
Lester Bros. Renaissance Zone
20 acres available in a planned industrial park. The site is completely cleared and ready to build. Owners are willing to build to suit and will consider lease options. Gas and electric utilities are already available, with a sewer system currently being installed. This zone is 2 miles from U.S. 127, 2.5 miles from I-94 on lays along a Class A road.
Brownfields
Many of these sites are former industrial sites, also known as Brownfields, which could qualify developers for additional Michigan Business Tax (MBT) credits or other incentives. For more information, visit the Brownfields Incentives page.
The clock is ticking on the benefits available from developing in these Renaissance Zones. Contact us today to see how we can help start building your future in Jackson by building on its historic past.