MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) – It was a groundbreaking day for the city of Marquette Wednesday. City officials broke ground at the site of the historic orphanage on Altamont Street.

After sitting vacant for decades, the old orphanage in Marquette will finally be transformed into living quarters once again; this time new apartments. The opening ceremony started off this morning with nearly 200 people in attendance. They listened to nine speakers including the mayor, project managers, and executive directors, among others who helped make this project a reality. There was much excitement and anticipation about bringing the past into the future.

“This is a rebirth of an old building,” said State Representative Scott Dianda, 110th District. “It shows what we can do in the Upper Peninsula with a lot of these old structures. This is something here that is absolutely great and will take care of a lot of people’s needs that have to have housing in the Upper Peninsula.”

Grandview Company partnered up with Home Renewal Systems to include 56 units of affordable rental housing and fourteen others for seniors, veterans, and those with lower income.

“It helps to progress economically if you’re close to employment opportunities,” said Project Executive Director Amy Lerlie. “That’s one aspect the population will serve. We also want to be inclusive in our community and that means people with special needs who may need supportive services.”

The project is slated to cost more than $15 million and will be completed by next fall. There’ll be one, two, and three bedroom apartments available at this time.

The project managers will also preserve the city’s history by restoring the building’s chapel. The renovation was also made possible by the state’s development authority, who’s providing $1.5 million every year.

Grandview is not taking names or checking income levels for households until four months prior to opening next fall.

Link to full article: Upper Michigan Source