The Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board of Directors today took the following action:

Awarded Contract for Monroe Center Snow Melt System Repairs

The Board awarded Van Dyken Mechanical, Inc. the construction contract to repair deteriorated components in the 15-year-old Monroe Center sidewalk snow melt system. The work also involves key system upgrades to prevent future system decline and repair costs. The total cost of the rehabilitation project will not exceed $148,700 and the cost will be shared by the Downtown Development Authority and the Downtown Improvement District. The scope of work is based on the findings of a comprehensive Spring 2013 evaluation of capital investments needed to keep the system in good working order. The DDA also is developing an up-to-date Asset Management Plan to guide proper long-term maintenance of the aging system.

Awarded Contract to Continue Monument Park Redevelopment

The Board awarded Katerberg-Verhage the construction contract for the next phase of the Monument Park redevelopment project. The park is bounded by Fulton, Division, and Sheldon. The work includes but is not limited to installation of the sidewalk and brick pavers, drinking fountain, benches, masonry columns, granite details, and bike loops. The total cost of this phase of the project will not exceed $468,000. The reconstruction of Monument Park will be completed in 2013. These reconstruction activities are yet another component of the larger Monument and Veteran’s Memorial parks restoration plan, subsequent phases of which are scheduled for implementation in 2014 and 2015.

Approved Agreement between the DDA and Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc.

The Board approved the operating agreement formalizing the relationship between the DDA and Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc., the singular management entity for the combined operations of the DDA, the Downtown Alliance, the City of Grand Rapids Office of Special Events, and the Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority. While the DDA will continue to comply with all state-mandated laws that apply, the new DGRI structure aims to achieve efficiencies by combining the staff of the partnering organizations and eliminating the confusion often associated with having multiple downtown organizations. DGRI expects to open store front office space in the Federal Square Building in fall 2013.

Supported Liquor License for New Downtown Restaurant

The Board recommended the issuance of a liquor license to Osteria Rossa, a new restaurant proposed to locate in the ground floor of the Kendall Building at 16 Monroe Center. Osteria Rossa will prepare classic Italian style foods and seat up to 100 people. The total project investment is an estimated $546,000. The City Commission will consider the liquor license at a future meeting.