The Michigan Infrastructure Council (MIC) launched the Regional Infrastructure Coordination Hubs (RICH) program in 2024. The program is part of the development of the 30-year Integrated Infrastructure Strategy to build regional capacity for data-driven, sustainable infrastructure management. The West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission, along with several other regional planning agencies (RPA) in Michigan, are participating in the pilot program. Insights from the two-year pilot program will guide legislative advocacy for future Asset Management funding streams that support a more coordinated, sustainable infrastructure throughout Michigan. 

One of the goals of the pilot is to establish a functional and interoperable regional GIS system framework that supports a process to plan, analyze, and coordinate asset management across assets and asset owners at the regional level. Per the FY25-FY26 Unified Work Program, MIC funding can be utilized by participating agencies to work towards any of the following program activities:

  • Regional investigation and baseline assessments
  • Regional collaborations, technology procurement, and training
  • Develop a regional GIS system framework and data standards
  • Regional data collection, digitization, mapping, and integration of new and existing data into the regional GIS system
  • Ongoing operations and management of the regional GIS system
In FY2026, WMSRDC used available funding to hire a consultant (GEOACE, LLC) under an agreement with the MIC to initiate a Regional GIS Assessment and Strategic Roadmap. This assessment included a Readiness Survey and interviews with local agencies throughout the region to understand the current capabilities, organizational priorities, existing challenges, and opportunities for future collaboration. The key findings from this study directly influenced the Implementation Plan developed by the consultant and will serve as a roadmap for FY2027 and beyond. The final GIS Assessment, Strategic Roadmap, and Implementation Plan is made available HERE.

To learn more about the Regional Infrastructure Coordinating Hubs, please contact:

Jack Grice
Planner | GIS Technician
(231) 722-7878 ext. 150