The DDA reported Tuesday that the Townsquare project — a multi-phase downtown public-space redevelopment — is nearing a milestone that would allow the city to solicit construction bids.

Jay Marks, Main Street director, told the board the project’s earliest contract work dates to March 20, 2023, when the Maiden Lane Pathway extension was first explored. The SmithGroup completed evaluations of downtown physical assets and prepared design recommendations, Jay said, and the DDA purchased the Jean Christopher lot and removed buildings at 116–118 in mid-2024 to assemble the project site. Design phases 1 and 2 began in mid-2024 and the project also appears in the city of Adrian’s strategic plan.

“Hopefully, it will make it to the city commission meeting so they can give us the green light and go out for bid next week,” Jay said.

Residents and board members at the meeting expressed support. Mary Roberts, a City of Adrian resident and longtime event organizer, told the board she is “thrilled” the Townsquare is “finally, hopefully, coming to us and going out to bid next week.”

The board did not take formal action on the project at the meeting. Jay said the planned next steps are city commission review and, if approved, issuance of a public bid. The DDA staff emphasized that final scope, schedule and construction costs will be set once bids are received and city commission approvals are secured.

Background and timeline
- March 20, 2023: Maiden Lane Pathway extension and early exploration noted in minutes.
- Mid‑2024: SmithGroup design phases 1 and 2; Jean Christopher lot acquisition and demolition of 116–118.
- Sept. 2025: DDA anticipates city commission review and potential bid issuance.