In September 2015, the U.S. EDA awarded a $223,000 grant to the MSU Center for Community and Economic Development (CCED) and West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) to conduct a feasibility study. The study will determine the feasibility of creating an economic sector in Muskegon, MI focused around the recycling and repurposing of materials obtained through the process of deconstructing abandoned structures throughout the Great Lakes region. The feasibility study stems from years of research on structural abandonment and its consequences, not only on surrounding property values, but also more broadly on the environment and economy.

The research team has worked very hard over the past few months collecting the necessary data, and providing periodic updates to the Advisory Committee. On July 26, 2016 the team visited Muskegon for “Port Day,” a celebration of the unique capacities that the Port of Muskegon offers; WMSRDC has also been working with national consulting firm, Martin Associates, on a study to determine the current and future capacities for the port. The feasibility study is nearing completion, and will be available on both the CCED and Domicology websites once published.

Also in July—the emerging field—Domicology was featured in Bridge Magazine. The article informed the public of the problems associated with blight and demolition, to gauge the public’s interest on the topic, as well as raise awareness of the ongoing feasibility study. The overall response to the article was positive; several readers commented, it was shared on various social media platforms, and was featured on WKAR’s Current State.

The Domicology website recently received a makeover, be sure to check out all of the new features at domicology.msu.edu/!