John Bitely discusses ‘Middle America’ in guest column featured in Grand Rapids Business Journal

The Grand Rapids Business Journal recently featured a guest column written by Sable Homes President John Bitely.

In his column published online on Jan. 4 and in print on Jan. 7, Bitely highlights Sable Homes’ housing initiatives in the Newaygo and Sparta communities in 2018. The Rockford-based developer worked with The Newaygo County Area Promise Zone Authority, TrueNorth Community Services and River Country Chamber of Commerce to break ground on the revitalized River Hills neighborhood in Newaygo. They also worked with the Village of Sparta to complete the final phases of the 50-year-old Country Meadows neighborhood near 12 Mile Road.

“It’s been great to bring these much-needed housing initiatives to the Newaygo and Sparta communities,” Bitely wrote in his column. “We are grateful for their support and assistance in helping these projects get off the ground. They are sure to be beneficial for years to come.”

Bitely also noted there is a consumer demand for “Middle America” — first-time buyers, those who are tired of renting or looking to downsize — and everyone in between.

“It’s not just here in West Michigan but throughout the country,” he wrote. “West Michigan needs to continue attracting skilled-trade workers in order for the workforce to remain on track for a strong 2019.”

Read John Bitely’s full column in the GRBJ, here.