Cherry Health and Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. recently hosted a grand opening at Shea Ravines, a new 56-unit affordable housing community located in Wyoming, Michigan, adjacent to Cherry Health’s Wyoming Community Health Center.

This $18.5M development will help address the shortage of affordable housing in the City of Wyoming (Source).

Shea Ravines will offer 40 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom apartments for singles, families, and seniors who earn 30% to 80% of the area median income. Rents will range from $507 to $1,380.

The property includes 20 permanent supportive housing units reserved for renters exiting homelessness. These residents will receive rental assistance from the Grand Rapids Housing Commission. Nonprofit services provider Community Rebuilders of Grand Rapids will coordinate supportive services to assist these residents in achieving greater self-sufficiency.

“We’re honored to celebrate the grand opening of the first phase of Shea Ravines, which will culminate in 112 units. Named in honor of our former CEO, Chris Shea, Shea Ravines reflects his many years of service at Cherry Health and his commitment to the community,” said Cherry Health President and CEO Tasha Blackmon. “We’re proud to partner with Woda Cooper to help remove one of the most significant barriers to health and well-being. Our vision is that Shea Ravines will be a place where lives are transformed and where every resident has their best opportunity to thrive.”

Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) allocated housing tax credits to Shea Ravines to support the development financing. “MSHDA is proud to support this development and to work alongside Woda Cooper and Cherry Health to bring quality, affordable housing and essential services to Wyoming. These investments will have long-term ripple effects, creating stability and a sense of belonging for those who call Shea Ravines home,” said Elizabeth Rademacher, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Allocation Manager at MSHDA.

Grand Rapid-based Independent Bank is providing tax credit equity for Shea Ravines and sponsored the AHP application. “Independent Bank is proud to provide construction and permanent financing for Shea Ravines I,” said Jason Blain, First Vice President and Director of Tax Credit Equity & Lending, Independent Bank. “This important development will expand access to quality affordable housing and supportive services in Wyoming, creating lasting benefits for residents and the broader community.”

Marble Cliff Capital, LLC, is the tax credit equity investor.  “The opening of Shea Ravines is a new beginning for local residents seeking stability and critical supports,” said Jack Kukura, President and Founder, Marble Cliff Capital. “We believe that everyone deserves a place to call home, and through this Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) funded project, we’re proud to contribute to the vital need for new affordable housing in Wyoming. Many thanks to our partners Woda Cooper Companies, Inc., Cherry Health, and Independent Bank, who are laying the foundation for hope and empowerment through this new community.”

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis is providing Shea Ravines with a $1M Affordable Housing Program (AHP) grant.

“We appreciate the trust and support of the City of Wyoming, MSHDA, and our financial partners,” said David Cooper, President, Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. “In addition, we’re pleased to have Cherry Health as our partner at Shea Ravines. They have built an excellent reputation throughout the State of Michigan for providing quality dental and medical services that will be a valued resource for our residents.”

The second phase of Shea Ravines is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by spring 2027, adding 56 additional affordable homes to the community.

The architect for Shea Ravines was Hooker DeJong, Inc., thegeneral contractor was Woda Construction, Inc., and Moore & Bruggink provided civil engineering services. Woda Management & Real Estate, LLC is the leasing agent and property manager. For more information, visit https://www.wodagroup.com.