Appropriations Requests for : Ypsilanti Performance Space Inc.

1. Cosponsoring legislators:

No Cosponsors

Recipient Information

2. Intended legislatively directed spending item recipient:

Ypsilanti Performance Space Inc.

3. Physical address of legislatively directed spending item recipient and the intended location of the project or activity:

218 N Adams St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

4. The recipient's employer identification number:

823847503

Funding Details

5. Requested amount of the legislatively directed spending item:

$475,000.00

6. What is the purpose and how does the legislatively directed spending item provide a public benefit that is an appropriate use of taxpayer money?

The Ypsilanti Performance Space (The YPSI), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, preserves and activates a significant historic landmark in downtown Ypsilanti, providing broad public access to arts, culture, and community events. The building, an 1882 stone Gothic Revival former Congregational Church, is one of Ypsilanti's most recognizable civic structures and a key part of the downtown historic district. Restoring this space as a public gathering place serves a clear public purpose. It protects priceless historic architecture while keeping the space open and useful to residents, preventing long-term vacancy or disrepair. As an arts and community venue, The YPSI offers direct public benefit through accessible programming for all ages and backgrounds. Recent events include student art shows, concerts, theatrical performances, community meetings, memorial services, weddings, rehearsals, educational workshops, and nonprofit fundraisers. Attendance has grown from 2,338 people in 2022 to 7,849 in 2024, despite only 25% of the building being usable year-round. Climate control will greatly expand this programming, directly benefiting Ypsilanti residents and the wider region. The legislatively directed spending request of $475,000 contributes to the total project cost of $605,000, which will fund the installation of a modern heating and cooling system, along with related weatherization and electrical upgrades in the former sanctuary, now concert hall. The YPSI has already secured $130,000 for this project. This upgrade will activate an additional 5,000 square feet year-round, increasing event capacity from 75 to 350 patrons (the only local event space of this capacity) and enabling sustainable performances, community events, and educational activities. This one-time capital investment will generate long-term revenue for preservation. The project boosts economic development and downtown vitality. A fully operational venue attracts visitors who support local restaurants, shops, and hotels, strengthening Ypsilanti's tax base and core business district. Increased capacity and year-round operations will position The YPSI as a regional arts and cultural tourism destination, complementing existing downtown infrastructure investments. This request relies on proven implementation capacity. The YPSI has completed a $100,000 roof replacement, a $150,000 annex renovation with solar installation, and a $539,000 MPSC solar/EV charging grant. State partnership will ensure this historic building serves the community safely for decades, supporting historic preservation, arts access, and economic vitality.

7. Has the legislatively directed spending item previously received or been awarded any of the following types of funding in the past 5 years?

No previous funding received

8. Estimated time frame for completion of the legislatively directed spending item project:

The estimated time frame for completion is by the end of fiscal year 2028

Additional Information For Nonprofit Corporations

9. Is the recipient a nonprofit corporation?

Yes

4. Officers and active members on the board of directors:

Mary-Margaret Brandt, President and treasurer Robert Oliver Laura Ann Schreiner, Secretary Holli Andrews

Certification By Sponsoring Legislator

• "I certify that my immediate family members, legislative staff members, and I have no direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the requested legislatively directed spending item."
• "I certify that the intended recipient of this legislatively directed spending item is not a for-profit entity."
• "I certify that the information in this form is true to the best of my knowledge."

Senator Jeff Irwin