Orion Construction and Linc Up host ribbon cutting for MoTown Square

On Wednesday, May 27, Linc Up, a nonprofit housing corporation, in partnership with Orion Construction and MoTown Square Development, hosted a grand opening community celebration of MoTown Square, a new 54-unit affordable assisted senior living community, located at 240 Hall Street SE, in Grand Rapids’ Southeast side. The event included tours of the units and a ribbon cutting with community leaders, residents, and state and local officials, including Grand Rapids City Third Ward Commissioners Marshall Kilgore and Kelsey Perdue.

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.

“Let’s never allow comfort, convenience, or the love of money to stand in the way of helping others,” said Michael Townsend’s son, Maurice Townsend, during the event. “Research consistently shows that where someone lives has a direct impact on their dignity, confidence, and overall quality of life.”

“This project was intentionally designed to meet the unique needs of our aging population with on-site support and services,” Grand Rapids Third Ward City Commissioner Kelsey Perdue told event attendees. “This is one of the most diverse ribbon cuttings I’ve attended in my four years on the City Commission, and it reflects just how important this vision is to the community.”

During the event, Grand Rapids Third Ward City Commissioner Marshall Kilgore said: “There has long been a perception that the south side does not receive the same level of funding or resources as other parts of the city. Projects like this help demonstrate that we are actively investing in the south side because these neighborhoods deserve it.”