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DDA reports progress toward redevelopment certification, rising tax capture and new downtown projects
Summary
The Downtown Development Authority reported progress toward Redevelopment Ready Communities certification, a more than $100,000 increase in tax capture, planned street reconstructions and two prospective downtown businesses; the DDA also announced the Chocolate Walk on Feb. 15.
Brandon Fry, director of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), updated the council on downtown redevelopment, certification work and upcoming events.
Fry said the city is working toward Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) certification under the Michigan Economic Development Corporation program. He told council the city’s “essentials alignment” was about 87% complete and “certified alignment” about 66% complete, and that a website redesign and improved transparency would help finish outstanding items.
Why it matters: RRC certification makes communities eligible for matching funds, technical assistance and a redevelopment service team that can improve the city’s appeal to prospective developers.
Highlights and downtown projects
- Tax capture: Fry said DDA tax capture was up “over $100,000” from the previous fiscal year, giving the authority more flexibility in budgeting for downtown projects and events.
- Planned street work: He said seven downtown streets are scheduled for reconstruction this spring or summer as part of the DDA’s street‑reconstruction program.
- Potential businesses: Fry reported two prospective projects that recently appeared before planning commission: a restaurant proposed for a grassy lot near Southfield Road and an indoor soccer facility. Both projects remain in early stages.
- Melis lot and events: Fry said the DDA added electricity to the Melis lot (seasonal farmers market location) to support more events, and that organizers are naming the space. He also confirmed the annual Chocolate Walk will be held Saturday, Feb. 15 from noon to 4 p.m.; registration headquarters will be at the band shell for that event.
Council members asked about vacancy reporting, maintenance of amenity areas and use of contractors for downtown upkeep. Fry said he maintains a vacancy list (with photos and square footage) for inquirers and that the DDA’s landscaping and trash‑removal contracts operate on a seasonal schedule; he said trash removal continues into winter and the DDA may add amenities incrementally over time.
Ending: The DDA director committed to returning with progress updates on RRC completion and downtown projects.
