LANSING, Mich., July 14, 2025, Gillespie Group, a leading force in community-driven revitalization projects, announces plans to potential acquire the soon-to-be former space of The Lansing City Rescue Mission along the 600 block of Michigan Ave in the Stadium District of Downtown Lansing directly across from their BLOCK600 development.
The City Rescue Mission, led by Mark Criss and his team, has long been a beacon of hope and support for the unsheltered community. Criss announced in September 2023 that they have a great intent to move and expand their hub to W Kalamazoo Street as part of a $10 million renovation project, making it the largest shelter for adults in Michigan. Criss knew that the successful repurposing of the current Michigan Ave buildings would play a vital role in the ability and success of an expansion along W Kalamazoo. He looked at Gillespie Group’s success of repurposing spaces in the Stadium District as a potential buyer for the spaces.
“We are looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the success of the City Rescue Mission’s move to their new location to expand their services, bed count, and resources to further serve our community. Their mission is needed in Lansing and for the community.” Said Pat Gillespie, Founder and CEO of Gillespie Group.
The purchase consists of five buildings, 603-613 E Michigan Ave, totaling over 16,500 square feet,. Dating back to 1907, and prior to the City Rescue Mission occupying the space, the buildings were home to West’s Fancy Baked Goods, multiple Barber Shops, Fre Flo Ceramic Supply, M-A-T Music, Sanitary Dry Cleaners, The Michigan Grille restaurant, a cigar factory, Dave Upholstering, Piggly -Wiggly Grocery Store, Chinese Hand Laundry, Lone Star Tea Company, Kopf’s Leather Goods and Shoe Repair, and many more businesses.
Gillespie Group’s initial vision for the possible acquisition includes honoring its history by bringing in businesses, restaurants and retail tenants that serve the community as it has since 1907 as well as activating the sidewalk with patios and reimagined rain gardens. A portion of the first and all of second floor will consist of 16 residential units.
“Our vision for these spaces is to welcome businesses that ignite energy, foster connection, and deliver the experiences our community has been asking for.” Said Pat Gillespie, “We plan to do this by curating vibrant, activated storefronts that spill out onto the sidewalk and invite engagement,
Gillespie Group’s plans to officially purchase the building this August and has been working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Lansing Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), Capital Regional Community Foundation (CRCF), Senator Sarah Anthony, and State Representative Angela Witwer to secure the approvals needed to move the project forward.
About Gillespie Group
Founded in 1994, Gillespie Group is a full service residential and commercial real estate firm based in Lansing, Michigan. With an eye to the future, Gillespie Group is fueled by strategic development with a passion for finding creative solutions for real estate development needs. Known for the ability to visualize new energetic spaces that breathe life into a space and community, Gillespie continues to use its resources to initiate the transformation within the communities it works in.
A leadership team who well versed in development of multifamily, commercial, medical, and corporate headquarters, Gillespie Group is proud to hold a portfolio featuring 2000 residential units and nearly a million square feet of commercial space. Whether a newly constructed ground-up development or the repurposing of an existing building/site, Gillespie Group is committed to developments that provide growth, community engagement and overall positive business and resident experiences. Learn more at gillespie-group.com.
ABOUT CITY RESCUE MISSION’S NEW LOCATION
The City Rescue Mission’s new location - totaling over 37,000 SF - will provide day and night shelter for 200 men and 100 women while providing meals, a chapel space, and additional in demand resources. Gillespie does not have confirmed plans yet for the new acquisition but has ideas and a vision for a mixed-use concept.
The City Rescue Mission held a groundbreaking in September 2024 for their new location, noting that construction may take up to 11 months.
