Major investments supporting Southwest Michigan communities
Cornerstone Alliance Highlights Harbor Shores, The Marquette Progress
Major investments supporting Southwest Michigan communities
Cornerstone Alliance (Cornerstone), Berrien County’s lead economic development organization, highlighted progress on two transformative projects that will bring significant investment, housing, and community impact to the City of St. Joseph through the Harbor Shores Riverfront and The Marquette mixed-use developments.
“These milestones are strategic investments in the future of Southwest Michigan,” said Marla Schneider, President/CEO of Cornerstone. “Projects like Harbor Shores and The Marquette show how targeted development can help fill the county’s housing gap, generate economic activity, and enhance the livability of our communities. Cornerstone Alliance is proud to provide expertise and guidance on initiatives that deliver measurable impact for the region.”
Together, Harbor Shores and The Marquette represent more than $200 million in private investment and a long-term vision to strengthen economic vitality, addressing housing shortages and improving the quality of place across Berrien County.
Harbor Shores: Expanding Waterfront Living
The first phase of development at the Intersection of Whitwam Drive and Upton Drive is a $150 million riverfront development combining housing, recreation, and commercial activity. Plans include 105 residential units spanning market-rate and workforce housing, 77 marina slips, commercial space, outdoor amenities including pickleball courts, and ample parking.
Infrastructure and marina completion are expected in the first half of 2026, with vertical construction planned over the next decade.
“Harbor Shores is a stellar example of development that meets the needs of the community while generating meaningful economic impact,” said Chris Cook, Managing Director of Harbor Shores Community Redevelopment. “By providing diverse housing options, expanding public access to trails and the riverfront, and creating vibrant recreational spaces, our development strengthens both quality of life and the local economy.”
Cornerstone Alliance supports Harbor Shores through its Renaissance Development Fund, which provides financial backing through loans for acquisition and construction to continue redevelopment of numerous properties.
The Marquette: Advancing Downtown St. Joseph Development
On Lake Boulevard in downtown St. Joseph, The Marquette took an important step forward following City Commission approval of a land sale. The $55 million mixed-use project will feature 100 residential units, including 32 condominiums and 68 market-rate apartments, along with ground-floor retail and restaurant space, public veranda, a rooftop courtyard, and underground resident and public parking.
“The Marquette will be a catalytic project for downtown St. Joseph, and will provide a product and experience unlike anything else in Berrien County,” said Andrew Haan, Senior VP of Community Development and Growth at Cornerstone. “With new housing options, added retail and year-round residents, this project has the potential to energize the downtown core, support local businesses and meet growing housing needs.”
Cornerstone Alliance is working closely with The Rienks Group, developer of The Marquette, to advance public engagement, planning, navigation, and project support. The Marquette requires additional approvals, including site plan review, before construction can begin.
About Cornerstone Alliance
Cornerstone Alliance is Berrien County’s premier economic development organization, dedicated to driving growth, investment, and job creation throughout the region. With a focus on supporting businesses at every stage, Cornerstone Alliance serves as a catalyst for sustainable economic development in Southwest Michigan.
