LANSING – State Representative Marcia Hovey-Wright (D-Muskegon) welcomed news Tuesday that Muskegon Heights will receive $1.8 million to address blight and prepare the community for revitalization.

“Residents and community leaders of Muskegon Heights are working hard to revitalize their community, and they deserve help,” Hovey-Wright said. “I’m grateful the city will be getting these funds, which will help get rid of dilapidated structures and pave the way for new development. It’s time to turn Muskegon Heights around.”

A dozen communities around the state are sharing $75 million through the federal Hardest Hit Fund, which is administered in Michigan through the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. MSHDA chose recipient cities based on criteria that included housing vacancy rates. Funds must be spent by 2017.

“The people of Muskegon Heights take pride in where they live and work, and they deserve a helping hand as they improve their community,” Hovey-Wright said. “I applaud the collaborative efforts between Muskegon Heights, County Treasurer Tony Moulatsiotis and the Muskegon County Land Bank to make Muskegon Heights an even better community, and I stand ready to help them in any way I can.”