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Despite Opposition, Tanger Outlet Center Moves Closer to Opening in West Michigan

Posted at 11:00 PM, Nov 18, 2013
and last updated 2013-11-19 05:05:50-05

BYRON TOWNSHIP, Mich. —  The Tanger Outlet Center proposed for an area near US-131 and 84th Street moved one step closer to opening a location in Byron Township Monday.

The planning commission said they will give a recommendation that the area be re-zoned from agricultural to commercial, clearing a path for 80-store shopping center to open a location by 2015.

A representative from Tanger says the company expects 4 million shoppers a year. The current outlet in Howell now sees a little more than 2 million annual shoppers.

After hearing those numbers, roughly 20 concerned citizens spoke up during the public comment portion of the planning commission.

Most of their concerns revolved around the amount of traffic, light pollution, and decreasing property values.

One person spoke on the number of jobs the outlets would bring to the area.  Tanger anticipates the 80 stores would employ 800 to 1,100 workers.

The next regular township board meetings are scheduled Nov. 25 and Dec. 9.