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Markets Prime Retail Sites Due to the close working relationship the DDA enjoys with downtown property owners, it is able to provide services similar to those of a realtor, but free of charge. When a building is available for lease or sale, property owners turn to the DDA to help them market, show and ultimately lease their storefronts. Signage is placed within the window, indicating "this prime retail location is available for lease" and directs the retail prospect to the DDA for further information or to schedule a walk-through of the site. Not only does this service lessen the burden on the property owner, out-of-town prospects are assisted by the DDA program director in a prompt fashion, often upon a moment's notice. To view data and photographs of available downtown properties CLICK HERE. Eases Communications with the City The DDA program director also assists individuals as they prepare to open their business, easing communications with fellow city officials, such as the Building Inspector, who issues permits for occupancy, signage and construction. Offers a Sign Incentive Program  To continue to strengthen the downtown's economic viability, the DDA provides financial incentives to existing and new business owners as they select or improve their storefront signage. Administered by the DDA's Design Review Committee, the Sign Incentive Program provides up to $300 toward the fabrication of new signage. Concept renderings, also funded by the DDA, take into consideration input from the business owner and the committee, as well as the overall Victorian theme of the central business district. The program goal is to improve the appearance of individual businesses and the downtown, which will ultimately have a positive economic impact on both. Furnishes Introductory Advertising To welcome new business owners to our downtown, the DDA provides them with a concentrated, week-long advertising campaign on Dowagiac's Q-92 radio station. This unique incentive is also extended to established downtown business owners in celebration of their expansion and relocation. The goal of the Introductory Advertising Incentive is three-fold as it also celebrates the growing success of Dowagiac's revitalized central business district, and its expanding niche of specialty shops and restaurants. Just as important, the advertising program affords the DDA the opportunity to market any storefronts that remain available for lease or sale. Provides Facade Funding Property owners and even tenants can take advantage of the Facade Incentive & Architectural Design Services Program, which provides $1,000 per storefront for either the historic or tasteful renovation of the front facade. An incentive of $1,000 is  also paid on a secondary facade, when approximately 90% of the facade faces a major roadway or non-alley. The DDA also funds the creation of an architectural concept
drawing, and provides a $500 incentive for work to the rear and sides
of the building.First offered during the late-1980s, the program's success is clearly evident on Front Street, where 95 percent of the storefronts have been renovated to their one-time grandeur. Today's expanded program is available to:
The Downtown Development Authority also:
Contact Us Today The Downtown Development Authority is located within the historic Dowagiac train depot at 200 Depot Drive. To schedule a walk-through of an available property, or to obtain further information on the central business district and its incentives, contact Vickie Phillipson, DDA program director, at vphillipson@beantstalk.net or call (269) 782-8148 or 782-8212. |
One
of the best resources available to aspiring retail business owners
and to existing central business district businesses is the Dowagiac
Downtown Development Authority (DDA).