The main job of the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Commercial Revitalization is to work with local businesses and residents to improve neighborhood commercial districts. Initially, five districts were chosen, based on proposals from the community.
Designated districts will receive grants and technical assistance. The grant money will be used by the local non-profit to hire two full-time commercial revitalization professionals. Working with local merchants and residents, these professionals will:
- Assist the community in developing a common vision and strategy;
- Help to make the commercial district clean and safe;
- Promote the district and its businesses among potential customers with festival, retail events and marketing;
- Improve the appearance of the district’s buildings, businesses and signs using the façade grant program and design standards;
- Assist the businesses by providing information on the capital assistance program (described below, bringing in targeted technical assistance and recruiting new businesses; and,
- Work to create and execute redevelopment opportunities.
Until further notice, the ONCR is not accepting applications for the Re$tore Detroit! and ReFresh Detroit programs.