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Havenwood Proposal Sparks Debate in Grand Haven Township

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/0 .. posal-sparks-debate-in-grand-haven-township.html
  Published in House and Home on Wednesday, March 4th 2026 at 3:41 GMT by MLive
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

GRAND HAVEN TOWNSHIP, MI - March 4th, 2026 - A significant development proposal is currently under review in Grand Haven Township, promising to bring 122 new single-family homes to the area but also sparking debate amongst residents concerned about preserving the township's unique character. The project, dubbed "Havenwood", aims to address the persistent housing shortage impacting the West Michigan region, but its scale and potential impact are generating both anticipation and apprehension.

Located on a 120-acre parcel formerly dedicated to blueberry farming near the intersection of Glen Haven Road and Burbank Avenue, Havenwood represents a considerable shift in land use for a traditionally agricultural area. The developer, Michigan New Homes LLC (a subsidiary of National Growth Communities), submitted preliminary plans to the township in late January, triggering a formal review process. While the specifics remain largely under wraps, early indications suggest a diverse range of housing options will be offered, intended to cater to varying demographics and budgets.

The proposal comes at a critical juncture for Grand Haven Township and Ottawa County as a whole. Over the past five years, the region has experienced consistent population growth, fueled by an influx of remote workers and families seeking a higher quality of life. This growth, however, has outpaced the supply of available housing, leading to escalating prices and limited options for both renters and potential homeowners. According to the West Michigan Association of Realtors, the average home price in Ottawa County has risen by 27% since 2022, with inventory levels consistently below two months' supply - a clear indicator of a seller's market.

Michigan New Homes LLC argues that Havenwood is a crucial step toward alleviating this shortage. "We recognize the need for more housing options in Grand Haven Township," stated Sarah Chen, a spokesperson for the developer. "Havenwood is designed to provide high-quality, attainable homes for families and individuals looking to settle in this vibrant community. We are committed to working with the township and residents to ensure the project integrates seamlessly into the existing landscape."

However, not all residents share this optimism. A vocal contingent has organized under the banner "Preserve Grand Haven Township," raising concerns about the potential strain on local infrastructure, particularly traffic congestion on Glen Haven Road and Burbank Avenue. These roadways are already experiencing increased volume during peak hours, and residents fear that an additional 122 households will exacerbate the issue. Furthermore, some residents are lamenting the loss of the rural character of the area, expressing a desire to maintain the open spaces and agricultural heritage that define the township.

The township planning commission held its initial review of the Havenwood proposal on February 15th, 2026, and requested further information from the developer regarding traffic studies, environmental impact assessments, and a detailed breakdown of the proposed housing types and amenities. A second review is scheduled for April 3rd, 2026, with a public hearing planned for later that month.

The current plans outline a mix of ranch, craftsman, and colonial-style homes, ranging in size from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet. Amenities are anticipated to include a community park, walking trails, and potentially a small clubhouse. While pricing details have not yet been released, the developer suggests homes will be "market-rate," meaning they will be priced competitively with similar properties in the area. This has fueled concerns among some residents that the homes will be unaffordable for many long-time township residents.

The debate surrounding Havenwood mirrors a broader trend occurring in communities across the nation - the tension between the need for housing and the desire to preserve local character. Grand Haven Township officials are tasked with navigating this complex landscape, balancing the economic benefits of new development with the concerns of residents who value the area's unique identity. The coming weeks will be crucial as the planning commission deliberates and residents continue to voice their opinions, ultimately shaping the future of this rapidly growing community.