Report: Microsoft buys 316 acres in Gaines Twp from Steelcase

GAINES CHARTER TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — Steelcase has sold 316 acres to Microsoft in Gaines Charter Township for a potential data center development, Crain’s Grand Rapids Business reported.

Crain’s reported that Microsoft purchased the property on the corner of Patterson Avenue and 76th Street for $45.3 million. No site plans have been announced .

Randy Thelen, president and CEO of the economic development organization at The Right Place Inc., told Crain’s that the company helped Microsoft assess the property for a potential data center.

“…The opportunity ahead with Microsoft fits into our 10-year tech strategy to develop the greater Grand Rapids region into a leading tech hub in the Midwest,” Thelen said in a statement to Crain’s. “With one of the leading tech companies in the world taking notice, we’re well on our way there.”

Dan Wells, community development director of the township’s planning and zoning department, told Crain’s that Microsoft hasn’t met with township leaders or shared any potential development plans.

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