Marquette, Michigan (November 6, 2025) Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. (Woda Cooper) and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) hosted a Grand Opening and Ribbon-cutting ceremony today to celebrate the opening of Black Rock Crossing, 1506 W. Ridge Street, Marquette, MI.
“Black Rock Crossing shows what strong partnerships can accomplish,” said Brigitte LaPointe, Chief Executive Officer of KBIC. “It creates real opportunities for our tribal members and local residents to have access to safe, affordable housing in Marquette. KBIC is proud to be part of a solution that strengthens both our Tribe and the greater community,”
The City of Marquette provided strong support for Black Rock Crossing to expand housing options for low- and moderate-income residents, including KBIC tribal members and their descendants. The City’s leadership approved a critical Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) to bolster the development’s opportunity to achieve a tax credit allocation from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and to satisfy investors and lenders. Project-based rental assistance is provided for eight units through the Marquette Housing Commission (MHC).
“The opening of Black Rock Crossing is an important step forward for Marquette. It represents our shared commitment to making sure everyone has access to safe, affordable, and high-quality housing. This development is the result of strong partnerships and a shared vision for a more inclusive and connected community. I am proud to see this project come to life and to welcome new residents who will help our city continue to grow and thrive,” said Marquette Mayor Jessica Hanley.
Black Rock Crossing offers 50 affordable rental homes, including 26 one-bedroom apartments and 24 two-bedroom apartments. The apartments are targeted to residents at a mix of incomes from 30% to 80% of the area median income (AMI) with the average of 60% AMI across the property. Rents range from $302 to $1,175 per month, depending on income limits and size of unit with eight receiving rental assistance from MHC. Nine of the 50 units are set aside for members of KBIC.
Black Rock Crossing features an elevator to assure access throughout the building for those with mobility challenges. Apartments have open concept design with ENERGY STAR appliances, including dishwashers, quality cabinetry, luxury vinyl tile flooring, blinds, washer/dryer closets with hook-ups. Community spaces include a second floor outdoor terrace, a multipurpose room with kitchenette residents can use for parties and other gatherings, a fitness center, common laundry, plus an outdoor playground, patio with a grill and picnic table, park benches, and covered bike racks. There are five units adapted for people with mobility disabilities or sight/hearing challenges. The building is certified as LEED Zero Energy which will result in lower energy costs for residents.
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA)allocated critical housing tax credits. “Black Rock Crossing reflects what can be achieved when state, local and private partners work toward the shared goal of expanding access to quality, affordable housing,” said Amy Hovey, MSHDA CEO and Executive Director. “By providing a stable foundation for our neighbors in Marquette to build their futures, raise their families and support local economic growth this development will have a profound impact on the community.”
KeyBank Community Development Lending and Investment (KeyBank CDLI) provided the construction loan and tax credit equity investment. “Black Rock Crossing represents a unique opportunity to invest in the Marquette community, where quality housing is in high demand, and where the impact of this development will be deeply felt,” said Gracie Houlihan, Underwriting Analyst for KeyBank CDLI.
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust provided the first permanent mortgage. “Supporting the local developments of new affordable housing is critical in our mission as a lender. We are pleased to provide financial support to Woda Companies’ Black Rock Crossing development in Marquette,” said Michael J. Goerdt, Vice President, Specialty Finance Group, Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust.
“Black Rock Crossing provides 50 new quality affordable homes for workforce families, seniors, and other residents who have had difficulty finding affordable housing options,” said Woda Cooper’s Craig Patterson, Senior Vice President – Development. “We are excited to be working with the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community as a co-developer, and appreciate the support from the City of Marquette, MSHDA, and all of our partners who have helped bring Black Rock Crossing to fruition.”
Architect was PCI Design Group, Inc. with general contracting by Woda Construction, Inc. with essential support from local subcontractors to complete the project. Woda Cooper’s management affiliate Woda Management & Real Estate is performing leasing and property management. For more information, call 906-458-6107.
