Mason is located in central Ingham County just minutes south of the state capital city of Lansing and serves as the county seat. Mason is the only county seat city in the United States located in the county containing the state capital that does not also serve as the capital city. The city was first settled in the 1840’s and was incorporated as a village in 1865 and as a city in 1875. The downtown square is the focal point of the distinctive historic charm and character of our community. The majestic Ingham County Courthouse, constructed in 1903 and recently renovated, provides the centerpiece for the historic architecture of downtown. The prominent clock tower atop the Courthouse is a beacon to the heart of our unique community. Mason is a growing town of 8400 people and is located minutes from East Lansing, home of Michigan State University. The agricultural setting surrounding the city is an attractive buffer from nearby urban areas. Quiet neighborhoods, a historic downtown, rural charm, affordable homes, a strong sense of community pride, a high-quality school system and convenient access to the Lansing, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, and Detroit metropolitan areas are a few of the attributes that make Mason a great place to live and work. Over the past several years, the City has aggressively improved city streets and other infrastructure, including the construction of sidewalks throughout the City. Programs are in place through the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to encourage the renovation of the numerous nineteenth century era buildings in our downtown square. The DDA and city cooperated in the completion of a downtown streetscape project to foster an attractive, pedestrian-friendly environment. Economic development efforts have resulted in several large and small business investments throughout the City. The City remains committed to encouraging the development of additional industrial and commercial enterprises that complement the character of our town. Mason is a “Tree City USA” and has been bestowed that honor by the National Arbor Day Foundation every year since 1990. The City is extending the Hayhoe Riverwalk that offers a walking trail from border to border through the beautiful heart of the city and will one day connect to other such walking trails throughout the region. Our park system also includes a nationally recognized skate park and roller hockey rink along with several neighborhood park facilities. The City government has devoted substantial resources in planning to ensure that the quiet, rural, small town character of Mason is maintained as the City grows. Mason is a source of pride for all who call it home. The City is committed to maintaining the best attributes of Mason and to creating an environment that is attractive to suitable commercial and industrial entities. We invite you to visit our city and see for yourself!
