Growth, arts and vision top Schor’s state of Lansing speech

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Mayor Andy Schor used Wednesday’s State of the City address to highlight development, jobs, the arts and a vision for the future.

Performances from Lansing’s Above Hip Hop Academy warmed up the Riverwalk Theatre crowd and foreshadowed one of Schor’s talking points. Academy founder and CEO Ozay Moore performed and was master of ceremonies.

Mayor being interviewed by man holding microphone as cameraman records.

Jordan Meadows

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor is interviwed at the 2019 State of the City address recapping his first year and looking ahead.

Schor, a year and a month into office, talked about what he has accomplished.

“In 2018, we hit the ground running. I am proud that we announced development projects, new businesses and jobs across the city. Last year, we announced nearly a billion dollars in new private investment in the city of Lansing. Lansing is booming,” said Schor.

Development projects include the new Meijer grocery store, a hotel planned for East Michigan Avenue and McLaren’s new $450 million, 52-acre campus on the southeast side of Lansing.

Schor also talked about his commitment to focus on developing Lansing’s art community.

“Just last month, the City of Lansing announced $140,000 in Lansing Art grants to fund some incredible art projects here in Lansing. This included our 2019 Arts Impact Project, ‘Below the Stacks,’ which is a citywide mural project designed to interpret Lansing’s legacy,” said Schor. He also discussed his new “Mayor’s Arts and Culture Commission.”

Later, Schor painted his vision for Lansing’s future.

“Lansing will be its best self: a diverse, dense, livable and welcoming environment. Our city will offer the amenities and necessities to retain and sustain residents through all stages of life: children as they grow, young people starting careers, families putting down roots, established professionals looking to expand their businesses, and retirees,” he said.

Schor concluded to loud applause and clear approval from the packed room. One performer who began the night, James Gardin, had nothing but praise. “He covered a lot of stuff that I felt was important about the city. It was probably one of
the better speeches I think I’ve heard from a politician,” said Gardin.

Others had similar reactions. Catrice Lane said, “I loved it. It was very interesting and I’m excited for all of the wonderful things that’s going to be happening in the city.”

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