 Jay Marks, Adrian's new Downtown Development Director and owner, with his wife of the Marks' Trading Company in Downtown Adrian, provided an update on happenings in the city! He said that Mainstreet DDA has been in existence since the 80's, that a TIF (Tax Increment Financing) of a 20-block area in the city has helped fund many of the Downtown programs, historic preservation and growth of the Downtown. The DDA is now part of Michigan Mainstreet that helps with marketing and design needs. Current projects his staff is working on include the Riverfront project that will include parks and trails, improvements to the Hammerman building on South Main Street that will include apartments and retail shops, micro business initiatives, installation of electronic banners, and fundraising initiatives just to name a few. Regarding the Farmer's Market, Jay said it still attracts some 200-225 visitors each week with 12 vendors participating ! He'd actually like to see that number increase to 400-500 and with 20 vendors participating. At the site, there will be public restrooms that they are finishing up on. The final item he spoke to was the closure of the Downtown streets for parades and other special occasions. The City Administrator and City Commission have increased the fees structure, Jay said. While they are not final, he and his staff will continue to work with the City to make sure it is affordable and equitable for everybody. |
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