The Village of Cassopolis, located in southwest Michigan, is a vibrant lakeside community steeped in rich history. Known for its historic urban core and traditional residential neighborhoods, Cassopolis has embarked on an ambitious revitalization project to enhance its downtown area. This project is a testament to the village’s commitment to fostering a thriving, attractive, and accessible environment for residents and visitors.

The Cassopolis streetscape revitalization project has garnered nearly $20 million in grant funding, highlighting the projects significance and scale. Additionally, by becoming a certified Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC), Cassopolis has further demonstrated its commitment to strategic growth and sustainable development. The project aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the downtown area, improve pedestrian and vehicular traffic flow, create a more inviting and functional public space, and foster economic development by attracting new businesses and visitors.

The design features modern, durable materials to craft a beautiful and eye-catching streetscape. The designers, Wightman and Associates, selected Artline™ pavers for their versatility, utilizing the 7-unit random bundle. Both Smooth Premier and Il Campo® finishes were chosen in the colors Opal, Steel Grey, and Granite, creating a visually striking pattern that enhances the streetscape’s appeal.

In addition to the aesthetic improvements, the project includes significant infrastructure upgrades: new water main and storm sewer systems, lane reconfiguration, and bump-outs for traffic calming. These enhancements improve pedestrian safety and walkability. The streetscape also offers outdoor dining spaces for restaurants and dedicated bike lanes, promoting an inviting and functional urban environment.

The Village of Cassopolis Streetscape project exemplifies how thoughtful design and strategic investment can transform a community. It serves as a model for other small communities seeking to enhance their urban cores while preserving their unique charm and character.