In Big Rapids and Morley, downtown is where it’s at. Both cities have exciting things under way to help attract visitors and shoppers.
Officials in Big Rapids are planning $2 million worth of work to the downtown, thanks to a federally-funded state grant. The Vibrant Small Cities grant was awarded in October 2007. The $1 million matching grant can only be spent in a traditional downtown. City officials expect to get the match from state highway funds, other grants and match dollars put up by local business owners.
Much of that work begins this in summer 2009.
“Downtowns are the heart and soul of our communities,” said Joe Borgstrom, head of the Community Assistance Team of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, which is administering the grant program. “Investing in downtowns ... creates a better quality of life for all of us.”
The project list for Big Rapids includes renovations to Pocket Park, street and electrical improvements on Michigan Avenue, including LED streetlights; business facade improvements; a sign system directing people to downtown; and a connection from downtown to Riverwalk.
The largest project is an arts incubator to be created in the upper floors of the Artworks building to provide studio space.
“Big Rapids had the best presentation of all the communities. They did a great job telling the story, both verbally and visually, and that’s what we want them to do,” Borgstrom said.
The Morley Merchants Association has been active in helping reestablish its downtown as “the place to be.”
The group organized its Four Seasons Winter Fest, which helps raise money for local students. All proceeds from the festival go towards scholarships for Morley Stanwood Community Schools students. The highlight of the festival continues to be the polar dip, where participants can gather donations and jump into Morley Pond.
Tina Reddy, chairperson for Morley Merchants Association and owner of Mo’ Town Pizza, said the group is also working on the fundraising for a community art project and planning for its annual festival, “Celebration on the Pond,” which draws visitors from around the state.
For more on downtown Big Rapids or downtown Morley, visit www.mecostacountyalliance.com.