06-19-2007 Commercial Corridors Spur New Business Growth

Home Browse Search

S. Michigan / S. Main Streets Acquisition, Demolition, and Redevelopment • Since 2003, five properties have been purchased with assistance of the Urban Enterprise Association ':•-- of South Bend, Inc, including: • 913-919 and 1001 (former Dudes N' Darlins): site was cleared, prepared for redevelopment, and is being marketed by local realtor. • 1101 S. Michigan: site was cleared and sold to REAL Services to facilitate their planned future expansion. • 1019 S. Michigan (The Burke Building): this local historic landmark has been secured and maintained by the UEA. A new roof was installated. The n r"a property is being marketed for reuse, both locally and nationally. • By acquiring these properties, three vacant buildings were demolished and these sites prepared for redevelopment • Additional properties will be targeted for purchase as future development opportunities in an effort to stimulate further market driven development in the corridor Streetscape Enhancement Projects New sidewalk, curbs, and trees have been installed in the 25 blocks between Chippewa and Sample. These improvements included the restoration of tree lawn with tree plantings. Additional streetscape improvements,including the installation of treegrates, started in 2006, will be oil, i completed between Bronson and Sample in 2007. Additional Programs & Accomplishments • The corridor has developed a marketing campaign, which has included brochure creation, website development, newspaper advertisements and a series of television commercials. • South Gateway worked in conjunction with Riley High School students to produce a quarterly newsletter. • To improve safety, funding is provided for increased police presence and a series of anti-crime, anti-violence and anti-gang billboards.