ABC57 News Anchor Brian Conybeare investigates what happened to his once-thriving hometown of Benton Harbor, Michigan over the decades.
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- From race riots in the 60s to a fiery police protest in the 90s, then a state emergency manager taking over city finances and Governor Gretchen Whitmer threatening to shut down Benton Harbor High School. All that happening just before the lead drinking water crisis hit—cutting off access to clean tap water across the 81% Black city—and don't forget the impacts of the deadly COVID pandemic we all struggled through.
But those problems are now in the past - and the future is looking up across the city, thanks to $131 million dollars of state investment in infrastructure, education and more since 2020.
The University of Notre Dame School of Architecture is also leading a $24 million dollar community redesign of the Riverview Drive corridor along the beautiful St. Joseph River - with the goal of creating a public park, riverwalk, housing, stores and amenities for both longtime residents and newcomers to enjoy.
Throughout this 30-minute special, you will meet some of the people helping Benton Harbor rebound, right now.
Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer provided ABC57 with the following statement:
Benton Harbor is showing what’s possible when we make long-term investments in people and communities. Since I took office, the state has invested in Benton Harbor, supporting new housing, revitalizing neighborhoods, creating jobs that strengthen the community, and delivering clean drinking water to residents.
There is still work to do, but we are seeing real progress. New homes are opening, vacant and blighted properties are being transformed, and new opportunities are taking shape across the city. I’m proud of the work our administration has done alongside local leaders, residents and community partners to help Benton Harbor move forward. And Mayor Muhammad's dedication as a steadfast leader and critical cheerleader for the city's future deserves special recognition.
Michigan will continue investing in Benton Harbor and communities across the state because every Michigander deserves the opportunity to live, work and raise a family in a safe, thriving community.
REBUILDING BENTON HARBOR INFORMATION/LINKS:
Vote to name "Project T" at Mercy Hospital
Apply for Housing: 269-291-0470
Donate to Harbor Habitat for Humanity
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Apply for Housing: 269-926-1900
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Benton Harbor Downtown Development Authority
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University of Notre Dame Riverview Drive Community Redesign
Notre Dame School of Architecture to partner with City of Benton Harbor | Giving to Notre Dame
Home | Housing & Community Regeneration Initiative | University of Notre Dame
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CITY OF BENTON HARBOR
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Michigan EGLE Water Crisis Page
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Michigan Department of Education/BHAS Partnership Agreement
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