The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a funding tool that Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) administers to help catalyze public and private investment in Grand Rapids’ urban core.
To maintain a high level of openness and transparency, the full recording of the live-streamed DDA Board meeting on February 8, 2023, is available on YouTube.
The Board met on this agenda and took the following action:
Approved a Parking Agreement with the YMCA
The Board approved a three year extension of the parking lease agreement for DASH Lot Area 8 with the YMCA.
There are a total of 125 spaces made available through this agreement that are utilized by YMCA guests and visitors.
The lease agreement can be terminated at anytime by either party with 60 days' notice.
Approved Funding for the Final Design of Lyon Square
The Board approved funding for final design work at Lyon Square.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) issued a permit for the project on January 12, 2023. The funding will support final design changes related to EGLE permit requirements, material and equipment availability, watermain design and City of Grand Rapids review processes.
Funds were approved not to exceed $85,000.
Heartside Mural Program Update
Jenn Schaub, Director of Community Building & Engagement at Dwelling Place, provided an update on the Heartside Historic Mural Project.
Downtown Ambassadors Annual Report
Rebecca Krenz, Operations Manager for the Downtown Ambassadors, provided an update on the work of the Downtown Ambassadors in 2022.
Highlights include over 430,000 pounds of trash removed, over 45,000 flower plantings, snow removal from over 16,000 pieces of Downtown infrastructure, over 3,400 instances of graffiti removed, over 9,800 contacts with businesses and over 150,000 engagements with Downtown residents and visitors.
