Jeremy Swiftney, Executive Director of the Main Street DDA
Jeremy attended Arizona State University and has been the DDA Director for two years.
Businesses in our downtown are adapting to the new model for doing business during Covid. On-line and carry out sales have helped boost revenues, and outdoor tables have given bars and restaurants enough space to make a go of it this year. Odd Side, Armory, Porto Bello, Dee Lite, Kirby, Long Road, Morning Star, Snug Harbor, Tip a Few, JW’s and Electric Hero were some of the places that operated successful outdoor cafes this summer.
The Mask initiative was very successful; NOCH, the City and the DDA collaborated to encourage safe public health practices in Grand Haven. Another outright business closure would be devastating to several small businesses in the downtown district.
Downtown Future Planning took place last week, with nationally renowned consultants offering guidance to local visionaries to improve our downtown business climate. A survey returned responses mostly from women, which is not concerning because often the female head of household makes the majority of DDA spending decisions:
Number one preferred restaurant was a “farm to table” type establishment.
- Number one retail opportunity was outdoor based retail.
- Strong response for an open City Market type concept.
- Lodging is also a focus for the future vision.
- Final report available in mid-November
Q&A:
Fifth third building is owned by BDR, the same company that owns the Piano Factory. Some future unknown tenant in that space.
Stanco property is moving forward this fall and winter with likely ground-breaking in the spring.
Grand Haven Jewelry purchased by Kyle Doyon and will be redeveloped and re-occupied (mixed use) in the next few years.
Discussion about transient versus seasonal use of marina – MSDDA supports more transient slips due to bigger impact on local sales from visitors.
