Capitol News

Michigan State University is expanding its Child Development Lab to Lansing’s Eastside with a new facility on Michigan Avenue. The project is supported by a $4.7 million investment comprised of $2 million from the state of Michigan and a congressional appropriation of $2,187,500.

“Michigan State University is proud to be opening this space alongside local leadership in Lansing,” said MSU Interim Provost Thomas Jeitschko. “The new center will provide fundamental and foundational resources to local families with young children, giving them access to exceptional early childhood education and childcare.”

U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who helped secure funding, stated that the expansion is "a win-win." She added, “It will have a direct impact on training future early educators and expand access to families across the region.”

Former U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow emphasized the benefits for both families in Lansing and future educators, saying, “I’m proud to have joined my colleagues to help secure federal funding for this vital investment in our children, our workforce and our community’s future.”

The development, led by Scott Gillespie and The Gillespie Company, LLC, highlights MSU's dedication to early childhood education. “We are thrilled to bring the MSU Child Development Lab to Lansing’s Eastside,” said Gillespie. “This project represents an investment not only in education but also in the broader revitalization of Michigan Avenue.”

Currently, MSU operates two Child Development Lab sites in East Lansing and Haslett. These labs offer educational services to children and training for students in child development. The new Lansing site aims to enhance community outreach and facilitate research and teaching efforts.

U.S. Sen. Gary Peters commented on the expansion's potential impact: “This state-of-the-art facility will bring much-needed childhood education resources to the community, provide a training ground for in-demand childcare professionals, and help to transform the Michigan Avenue corridor.”

The Lansing site is expected to create opportunities for families with diverse backgrounds and abilities. It will open in spring 2026.

The project received support from various community partners, including U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin, former U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, and other local leaders.

For more information, visit the MSU Child Development Lab website.