Grand opening for MoTown Square assisted senior living development in G.R.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The grand opening for a 54-unit assisted senior living residence is taking place Wednesday in southeast Grand Rapids.

The nonprofit housing corporation Linc Up, along with Orion Construction and MoTown Square Development, are hosting a community celebration at 240 Hall Street. It's open to the public and will include a ribbon cutting at 2:30 p.m., followed by tours and refreshments. MoTown Square is a four-story building featuring one-bedroom affordable housing apartments for seniors who are 55 and older.

Twenty-five units include project-based housing vouchers through the Grand Rapids or Wyoming housing commissions, capping rent at one-third of residents’ income.

"Within that building, the rent covers water, gas, internet and electricity," Linc Up executive director LaKiya Jenkins told WOOD Radio News in a telephone interview. "We can support services such as personal care assistance, homemaking services, transportation, caregiver support, meal delivery and dining services, as well as chore support."

Jenkins said it is important for seniors who want to stay in the core city, and 49507 in particular. It allows them to be in comfortable surroundings where they know people in the neighborhood and are familiar with the services there.

Here are more details from a Seyferth PR news release:

The four-story development features 54 one-bedroom affordable assisted living apartments designed for seniors ages 55 and older with supportive services coordinated through partnerships, including Area Agency on Aging, PACE, Reliance, and preferred provider Elders Helpers.

Twenty-five units include project-based housing vouchers through the Grand Rapids or Wyoming housing commissions, capping rent at one-third of residents’ income. All units are affordable to households earning at or below 60% of area median income, with 12 apartments available for individuals 55 years and older who are currently experiencing homelessness.

“MoTown Square represents a major investment in dignified, affordable housing for older adults in the 49507 community and addresses the growing need for supportive senior housing options in Grand Rapids,” said LINC UP Executive Director LaKiya Jenkins. “This ribbon cutting marks more than the opening of a building. It represents what is possible when community vision, strategic partnerships, and intentional investment come together to meet urgent housing needs.”

By providing quality, affordable housing for seniors in the Grand Rapids area, MoTown Square expands access to affordable assisted living for seniors who have historically faced limited options for quality care and housing. With a focus on supportive services, the development fosters vibrant, inclusive communities where older adults can age with dignity, independence, and care.

“As the demand for senior housing continues to grow, developments like MoTown Square have become increasingly important to the future of our neighborhoods,” said Brad Walsh, president of Orion Construction, the general contractor for MoTown Square. “We are proud to partner with Linc Up to help create a place where seniors can receive the support they need while remaining part of the vibrant southeast Grand Rapids community.”

The $18.37 million development was funded through a combination of:

·         Low Income Housing Tax Credits from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority

·         Equity investment from Walker & Dunlop

·         Contributions from the City of Grand Rapids

·         Kent County HOME American Rescue Plan

·         Revitalization and Placemaking Fund

MoTown Square was envisioned by the Townsend family, in partnership with LINC UP Nonprofit Housing Corporation. The building is further enriched by a striking mural honoring Pastor Michael Townsend, whose legacy is reflected through vibrant imagery and symbolic elements celebrating his faith, family, leadership, and lasting impact on southeast Grand Rapids.

WHAT:             MoTown Square Community Celebration and Ribbon Cutting

WHEN:            Wednesday, May 27, 2026

2-6 p.m.

2 p.m. ribbon cutting and short program; followed by tours and refreshments

WHERE:           MoTown Square

240 Hall Street SE

Grand Rapids, MI 4950

Orion Construction Inc.

Orion, founded in 2000, is a multi-service construction company and development firm in West Michigan with a mission of revitalizing urban cores and local economies through high quality new construction, renovation, restoration and design/build services. The firm specializes in mixed-use development, industrial, institutional, retail and multi-family construction. Orion is widely recognized throughout Michigan as a leader in developing successful public/private partnerships and working with neighborhoods and local governments to achieve mutually beneficial and economically sustainable projects. Visit www.orionbuilt.com