Four communities made it to the finals in this year’s Community Excellence Award competition. At Convention, they showcased the creativity and innovation that got them to this point. Now they need your votes!

Muskegon’s Western Market – The city of Muskegon built several small “chalets” in an underused area of downtown to give entrepreneurs an affordable way to test their business concepts. The “chalets” have become so popular with residents and entrepreneurs that the city has already built several more.

Owosso’s Armory Project – For many years, the Armory building in downtown Owosso was an underused eyesore. The Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce, the city, and Owosso Main Street decided it was time to breath some life into the building and downtown. After much effort, the building has now been transformed into a multi-use space that houses a community center, business and economic development resources, incubator and conference spaces, farmers market, and more.

Downtown Saginaw SVRC Marketplace – The former Saginaw News building held great memories for many people, but it had definitely seen better days. SVRC, a local nonprofit, has turned the building into a mixed-use facility that houses quaint shops, an indoor farmers market, a licensed commercial kitchen for use by entrepreneurs, business incubators, and more.

Fraser’s McKinley Barrier-Free Park and Playground for People of ALL Abilities – For many years, McKinley Park was largely an unused park with very little in the way of playground amenities. Thanks to the all-volunteer Fraser First Booster Club, the park is now full of colorful, inviting playground features that are welcoming to children and adults of all abilities.

Vote now in the Convention app or at the PlanteMoran booth in the Expo area of the Amway Grand.