September 26, 2020: Downtown Day

WHEREAS, Michigan downtowns distinguish a community, are the drivers of economic development, and contribute significantly to the quality of life of residents; and,  

 

WHEREAS, a downtown is the commercial core of a community that serves as its social and economic center; and,

 

WHEREAS, the small businesses located within a downtown create jobs, commerce, and investment; and,  

 

WHEREAS, downtowns and the small businesses located on main streets rely on the support of community members; and,  

 

WHEREAS, the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), founded in 1980, is a state-wide, non-profit organization and a driving force in the  growth of downtowns and communities throughout Michigan; and,  

 

WHEREAS, the MDA encourages the development, redevelopment, and the continuing improvement of Michigan communities and downtowns with 183 members, including cities, Downtown Development Authorities, individuals, and businesses, supporting the economic development within the State of Michigan; and,  

 

WHEREAS, the MDA believes that now, more than ever, Michigan residents need to support downtowns and the businesses they contain by shopping, dining, attending an event, or volunteering; and,  

 

WHEREAS, the MDA believes that there are myriad of opportunities for Michigan residents to continue to support downtowns in the wake of COVID-19, including strolling sidewalks, having a picnic in a park, purchasing carryout from a restaurant, utilizing a retail store’s curbside pickup service, and sharing a business’s social media post; and,  

 

WHEREAS, the MDA encourages Michigan residents to mark the occasion and celebrate their love of downtowns annually;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim September 26, 2020, as Downtown Day in Michigan.