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 November 8, 2023, is available on YouTube.
The Board met on this agenda and took the following action:
World of Winter Snow Removal
The Board approved a contract with Building Bridges GR for snow and ice removal services in key areas during World of Winter 2024 to enhance accessibility and safety for festival attendees.
Funds were approved not to exceed $21,322.
Has Heart MEDC Grant Fund Disbursement
The Board approved the disbursement of Michigan Economic Development Council (MEDC) Match on Main grant funds to Has Heart, a veteran-owned coffee shop opening in November at Veteran's Memorial Park.
Has Heart worked with DGRI to secure the funds to accomplish the grant's goal of supporting or expanding placed-based business in Michigan. MEDC's grant guidelines required that fund applicants be local units of government, Michigan Mainstreet programs, Downtown Development Authorities of other management districts.
Disbursement of $25,000 in grant funding was authorized.
Shinola Retail Innovation Grant Support
The Board approved funding from the Retail Innovation Grant program to support the opening of Shinola's retail store at 40 Monroe Center. This approval supports goals related to increasing retail density and activating vacant storefronts on Monroe Center. The retail innovation grant provides funding to defray lease costs for Downtown businesses that meet certain criteria. Shinola executed a three year lease and their grant application was reviewed and recommended in September.
Funds were approved not to exceed $61,000.
Community Rebuilders Rapid Rehousing Program Update.
Community Rebuilders provided an update on DGRI's collaborative geo-targeted housing outreach program effort with the City of Grand Rapids and Kent County.
A narrative report can be found on page 30 of the meeting agenda packet.
