The Purchase of Lansing Shuffle

 
 

Investing in Lansing's Future

Since opening in 2023, Lansing Shuffle has become more than a food hall—it's a community gathering place that has helped bring new energy to Lansing's riverfront. From local restaurants and entrepreneurs to nonprofit events, live entertainment, and family programming, we've worked to create a destination that belongs to the community.

Now, we're asking for your support on the next step: purchasing the building we currently operate in. This proposal is about ensuring Lansing Shuffle can continue investing in the space for years to come.

What Is Being Proposed?

Lansing Shuffle is requesting approval to purchase only the building and the land directly beneath it—not Rotary Park, the riverfront, or the public parking lot.

The purchase has always been part of our lease agreement with the City. After demonstrating a successful operation, the agreement allows us to request the opportunity to purchase the property through a public approval process.

What's Staying Public?

The proposal does not include:

  • Rotary Park

  • The River Trail

  • Riverfront public spaces

  • The public parking lot

These areas will remain publicly owned and accessible. Only the Lansing Shuffle building footprint is included in the proposed sale.

Why Purchase the Building?

Owning the building gives Lansing Shuffle the ability to:

  • Continue investing in the property for the long term.

  • Access better financing for future building improvements and capital repairs.

  • Maintain and enhance the guest experience.

  • Ensure the business remains financially sustainable.

  • Continue serving as a vibrant destination for downtown Lansing.

The concept has been proven successful, and ownership provides the stability needed to continue growing rather than simply maintaining the space.

A Commitment to Lansing

If the purchase is approved, Lansing Shuffle has committed to:

  • Maintaining public access to restroom facilities and drinking fountains during business hours.

  • Providing utility and access easements to the City at no cost.

  • Working with the City on future property-use protections.

  • Continuing to invest in the building and downtown Lansing.

Built for the Community

Lansing Shuffle was created as a place where people can gather, connect, and support local businesses.

Today, the space includes:

  • Seven locally owned food concepts

  • Five full-size shuffleboard courts

  • Weekly community programming

  • Live music and entertainment

  • Nonprofit partnerships

  • Family-friendly events

We've proudly partnered with organizations including LEAP, the Global Institute of Lansing, Rainbow Homes, the Lansing Police Department, and many others to create programming that benefits the entire community.

Why This Matters

Before Lansing Shuffle, the building sat largely vacant after the former City Market struggled with declining traffic and rising operating costs.

Private investment transformed the space into a thriving destination that now brings residents and visitors downtown while supporting local entrepreneurs and activating the riverfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you buying the park?

No. The proposal only includes the Lansing Shuffle building and the land immediately beneath it. Rotary Park, the River Trail, surrounding green space, and public parking remain City property.

Why buy instead of continue leasing?

Ownership allows Lansing Shuffle to refinance existing debt, invest in major building improvements, and continue evolving the space for the community. A long-term investment is much more difficult under a lease structure.

Will the building still be open to the public?

Absolutely. Lansing Shuffle will continue operating as a public gathering place with food, drinks, entertainment, community programming, and public amenities.

Is this good for Lansing?

Our goal is simple: create long-term stability for Lansing Shuffle while continuing to invest in downtown Lansing, support local businesses, attract visitors, and activate the riverfront for years to come.