I had an opportunity to go inside the old Kiddie Toy and Brush facility in downtown Jonesville Michigan, so I took advantage of it. The upper floors of this factory have not been used since the 1960’s. The space offers ceilings about 10 feet tall on 4 floors, and large windows on three sides with huge wood beams and thick brick walls. My untrained eye says it’s in great shape for a building that hasn’t been used in decades.
A developer has come to town and has attained approval from Jonesville’s planning commission and village council to begin turning the eyesore into a modern apartment building for seniors and small middle class families. Federal monies must now be obtained to begin the project. The plan calls for the demolition of all the one story additions and leaving just the original four story building. A parking lot surrounded by significant green space will be incorporated on the site. If all of the state and federal approvals fall into place, the project will begin in the Spring of 2012.
In 9-12 months, a building with 46 apartments will be completed. All of the apartments will have either 1 or 2 bedrooms. 2 floors will be exclusive to senior citizens while 2 middle level floors will house singles, couples, and small families. The ground floor devoted to seniors is scheduled to also have a library, community room, and kitchen. Minimum income will be required for all residents. Government housing assistance will not be available at this facility.
The Munro House Bed and Breakfast is just a block away and is the most convenient lodging facility for the developers, workers, inspectors, and future visitors to residents of Heritage Lane.
Mike Venturini
Jonesville Michigan Bed and Breakfast Innkeeper
“Life is good in Jonesville”