New upscale apartment complex opens in downtown Lansing

Metro Place Apartments, a newly opened mixed-use development owned by Lawton Group first announced back in 2017, is officially open for business. Marketed primarily as upscale living for young professionals, it replaced the old YMCA building, which was in operation from 1951 to 2003 and was demolished to make way for Metro Place.

“We purchased this property in 2007, so Metro Place is the fruition of many years of planning, regrouping, long hours and hard work,” said Julie Lawton-Essa, head of Lawton Group. “I think the building looks beautiful and truly revitalizes this part of downtown Lansing.”

Metro Place is located right next to Reutter Park on Lenawee Street. It’s a quick jog away from the Capitol building, Lansing Community College and all the restaurants and bars downtown has to offer. While it already has tenants moved in, there’s still a lot of space for new applicants. There are 145 units and six different options which range from studio apartments, with the smallest at 436 square feet, dubbed “The Council,” to 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom configurations, of which the largest is 1353 square feet, known as “The President.” Rent ranges from $890 for the cheapest studio apartment to $2,000 for the most expensive 2-bedroom option.

Apartments feature wood-style vinyl floors, polished, dark granite style kitchen counters, walkout balconies and new GE appliances, including a washer and dryer. The units also have energy efficient features, including LED lighting and climate control heating/cooling. Community-wide amenities for residents include bike racks, on-site management and “rapid response” maintenance request service, free dry-cleaning pickup and delivery and trash and recycling, among others.

The retail space on the first floor has yet to be occupied, but Julie Lawton-Essa, head of Lawton Group, said they have been talking to several potential businesses, such as Michigan-based coffee shops.

Tenants are responsible for the cost of electricity, water and sewage. Internet is available in the lobby, but it is not a provided amenity across each apartment. Residents can also pay $35 per month to access a storage unit, and $65 per month for an assigned parking spot. Pets are welcome on designated floors, with certain breed restrictions, and come at a cost of a one-time $500 fee and then a $50 monthly fee. Metro Place is currently offering a referral program, which gives a resident $300 off next month’s rent if they refer a friend who becomes a fellow resident.

Metro Place Apartments

301 W. Lenawee St., Lansing

(517) 333-1635

For more information or to fill out an application, visit: metroplaceapartmentslansing.com