Benton Harbor-based Cornerstone Alliance launched a housing needs assessment for Berrien County in partnership with Bowen National Research.
Bowen is a housing analysis firm. The five-month study is designed to provide countywide data and insights. The data will drive strategic housing development and help ensure Berrien County is equipped to support the expansion of existing businesses and the attraction of new employers.
“From long-time industry leaders to small business owners across the county, we’re hearing the same thing; our workforce needs more housing options,” said Marla Schneider, Cornerstone Alliance president and CEO, in a press release. “This study will provide the data needed for municipalities to implement tools and incentives, unlock new opportunities for developers and position Berrien County as a site-ready region ready to grow.”
The study will identify current and projected housing needs across all income levels. It will focus on workforce housing that serves households earning between 50 and 120% of the area median income. It will include submarket analyses across eight geographic districts in Berrien County and incorporate input from local municipalities and employers. The study will also evaluate factors such as commuting patterns, rental vacancy rates, affordability and housing conditions.
“Housing is a challenge facing nearly every community in the county, including Buchanan,” Tony McGhee, City of Buchanan city manager, said. “With our downtown project slated for completion this fall and new development opportunities on the horizon, partnering on this study gives us valuable, in-depth information about our community.”
The project includes the activation of housing development through public-private partnerships, the creation of a dedicated housing resource within the organization and the advancement of zoning and development strategies that improve access to attainable housing.
Findings will be made publicly available when the study is complete in December 2025.
“This is a pivotal moment,” Schneider said. “By the end of the year, we’ll have a shared, data-driven foundation that empowers every community in Berrien County—urban, rural and lakeshore alike—to move forward with confidence and clarity.”
