The nonprofit Downtown Ann Arbor Partnership has been established to aid local businesses, residents, and other organizations in improving development and inclusivity in the city’s downtown area.
The organization (DA2P) was founded by another nonprofit, the State Street District, looking to expand the base of the stakeholders to more than just local residents. The push is to include local businesses, other downtown districts, residents, as well as the Downtown Development Authority to “cultivate an inclusive, thriving downtown environment.”
The group says it plans to accomplish its goals through support of local business, offering shared services, planning and hosting community events, working as a data resource to help form policies and encourage investment, and acting as an advocate to work with local government and other organizations.
“This initiative heralds a pivotal moment in Ann Arbor’s dedication to fostering unity and mutual support among downtown partners, businesses and individuals,” says Angela Heflin, who co-founded the new organization. Heflin also is the executive director of the State Street District.
“Committed to nurturing community growth and collaboration in the heart of Ann Arbor, the mission of the Downtown Ann Arbor Partnership is clear: to ignite positive change, unite the community, and enhance the downtown experience for all stakeholders, partners, and visitors.”
The State Street District is probably best known for being the organizer of the annual Ann Arbor Art Fair. It also engages, however, in a variety of efforts to encourage people to come to the city’s urban areas to shop, eat, work, and live.
“We’re better together,” says Heflin, emphasizing support from other groups and to the DA2P’s dedication to maximizing efforts.
