The Lincoln Township Planning Commission saw more detail Monday night around the 200-unit residential development proposed at 3822 Red Arrow Highway.
The South Bend real estate firm, Great Lakes Capital, has proposed the development on the long-vacant Snowflake Motel property.
The Lincoln Township Planning Commission held a public hearing on the company’s request to rezone 10.59 acres at the site from Commercial Mixed-Use to High Density Residential.
“We are excited to bring forward a project that directly addresses the housing needs of Lincoln Charter Township and the broader region,” said Jeff Smoke, Managing Director at Great Lakes Capital. “This development is designed to provide high-quality, attainable housing while enhancing the character of the community. We look forward to working with local leaders and residents to create a project that benefits everyone.”
The development, known as Red Arrow Bluffs, will feature a collection of three-story buildings offering “high-quality, attainable housing for local professionals such as teachers, police officers, and skilled tradespeople.”
Dr. Thomas Pow is the current landowner of the proposed development site. He spoke in favor of the rezoning and emphasized the importance of expanding housing options to support essential workers.
“As a cardiologist at Corewell Health, I see firsthand the challenges many professionals face in finding attainable housing near their workplaces,” said Dr. Pow. “This project is an important step toward addressing that need, providing housing options that will benefit not only healthcare workers but also teachers, first responders, and other essential members of our community. I’m proud to support this effort and look forward to seeing its positive impact on Lincoln Charter Township.”
Lincoln Charter Township Supervisor Glenn Youngsted said, “The proposed development presents a meaningful solution, transforming the site into a vibrant residential community that will provide much-needed housing and spur economic growth.”
The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is supporting the development and noted additional support from other “key regional organizations” including Southwest Michigan First.
“Great Lakes Capital has a proven track record of delivering high-quality housing developments across the country,” said Dan Buckenmeyer, Director of Economic Development at Southwest Michigan First. “I’ve worked with them extensively in the past and have complete confidence in their intent and product. Their recent projects in Mishawaka, Muskegon, Petoskey, and Traverse City showcase the thoughtful design and successful outcomes that residents can expect to see in Lincoln Charter Township.”
“Southwest Michigan’s housing shortage has become a major barrier to economic growth, workforce retention, and regional prosperity,” added Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber. “This development is a critical step forward, delivering the type of “missing middle” housing that will attract talent, support local businesses, and foster a stronger, more sustainable economy. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Great Lakes Capital and Lincoln Charter Township on this important project and hope it serves as a catalyst for similar investments across the region.”
The immediate next step involves finalizing the zoning approval and conducting a series of public hearings with developer collaboration for the final plans.
If all approvals and incentives are granted, supporters say construction could begin later this year, with the first units anticipated to be available for occupancy in late 2026.
Image credit: Great Lakes Capital. The depiction is an initial rendering and subject to change during the development process.
