BETTER CURB APPEAL
Downtown businesses improve buildings with DDA grants
“Sincewe launched this program in 2017 we’ ve had 16 different businesses take part in it. Even during this pandemic we have four businesses and property owners thatwant to invest in businesses, which ispretty remarkable considering what’s happeningwith COVID-19.”
— Jennifer Finney, DDA executive director
Four downtown Berkley businesses have started renovating the facades of their buildings with grants fromthe city’sDowntown Development Authority.
Exterior building upgrades are already in progress or completed at new businesses Fresh Collective Kitchen & Market, and Pinspiration, both on Coolidge Highway.
Renovations are also happening on 12 Mile Road at Amici’s Kitchen & Bar restaurant, and Articipate, an art studio with classes for aspiring artists.
A new awning is up at Fresh Collective, which offers fresh local produce, coffee, and grab-and-go items. The business offers competitive rates for commercial kitchen use, classes, and private events.
Pinspiration is a DIY craft studio with supplies and craft projects that used grant money to add a lighted sign, floral trimand repair windows and lighting.
Jennifer Finney, DDA executive director, said grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, under the organization’s facade and parking lot enhancement program.
“Since we launched this program in 2017 we’ve had 16 different businesses take part in it,” Finney said. “Even during this pandemicwe have four businesses andproperty owners that want to invest in businesses, which is pretty remarkable considering what’s happening with COVID-19.”
Grants benefit the downtown in general as well as the business owners, said Finney.
“The result fosters a more attractive downtown and helps to maintain the economic viability of our district,” she said.
Amici’s, known for its gourmet pizzas and craft cocktails, has two buildings.
The restaurant will soon get a new awning with lights, windows, and a mural to complement the existing public art in the downtown.
A new awning and front door will be added toArticipate, alongwithwindow improvements after the exterior is spruced up with power washing, according to the DDA.
The DDA’s design committee oversees the facade and parking lot grant disbursements, which are distributed to cover half of a business owner’s costs for upgrades.
Finney said the same 50/50 matching grants can be applied for parking lot improvements.
Business or property owners apply for the DDA funds to improve or beautify their lots with fencing, landscaping or artwork.
“The parking lot grants can also be used to convert a lot into a dining or sitting area,” Finney said.
The grant program is part of a DDA goal to improve the quality of life for residents andbusiness owners bymaking commercial districts more attractive, she said.
More information about the grant program can be found online at downtownberkley.com.