(Photo courtesy of Michigan Downtown Association)
The fourth Saturday of September has been proclaimed “Downtown Day” by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer with the initiative requested by the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA). Saturday, September 28, will mark the fifth anniversary of special day recognizing the importance of strong Michigan downtowns.
Understanding that now more than ever Michigan residents need to support downtowns and the businesses within by shopping, dining, attending an event, or volunteering, the MDA contacted the Governor’s office and requested that Saturday, September 28, be declared “Downtown Day.” The organization received the official Proclamation, signed by Whitmer, this month.
The MDA encourages community members to visit a Michigan downtown on September 28 and enjoy its shops, restaurants, and recreational and cultural aspects. Many MDA member communities have special events planned to celebrate the special day.
For example, downtown Plymouth will host a variety of activities including live music in Kellogg Park and a scavenger hunt where visitors finding a golden ticket can redeem the prize for a gift card to a local establishment.
“It's a great way to bring the community together while generating a positive economic impact for our businesses,” Sam Plymale, executive director of the Plymouth Downtown Development Authority, said. “Downtown Plymouth will be a buzz with plenty of family-friendly activity for Downtown Day, including a Farmers Market and a Scarecrow Walk,” he continued.
“The MDA believes ‘Downtown Day’ brings positive attention and recognition to small businesses and downtown cores,” Dana Walker, director of the MDA, said. “There are many opportunities for Michigan residents to support downtowns like strolling sidewalks, having a picnic in a park, enjoying a Social District, purchasing goods from a retailer, or leaving a positive review for a small business on social media,” she continued.
The MDA states a downtown is the commercial core of a community that serves as its social and economic center.
“Downtowns, and the small businesses located within, deserve to be celebrated for they distinguish a community, are the drivers of economic development, and help to offer a sense of place that contribute significantly to the quality of life of residents,” Walker said. “The small businesses located within a downtown create jobs, commerce, and investment,” she explained.
“Downtowns are resilient, but our small businesses and downtowns continue to need locals to support them in whatever way possible,” Walker continued.
The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), founded in 1980, is a state-wide, non-profit organization and a driving force in the interest and growth of downtowns and communities throughout Michigan. The MDA encourages the development, redevelopment, and continuing improvement of Michigan communities and downtowns. Its 225 members support economic development within the State of Michigan and include cities, Downtown Development Authorities, township, villages, Principal Shopping Districts, chambers of commerce, individuals, and businesses.
For additional information regarding Downtown Day and the MDA, visit www.michigandowntowns.com.
