In the years since the DDA was established, numerous projects have gradually changed the landscape of Port Sanilac.  Some of the projects are very obvious, some are not so obvious.  Here is an explanation of some of those projects and how they have changed our Village.

     The increased "curb appeal" of the town was a priority for beautifying and creating an inviting atmosphere for our downtown visitors.  The streetscape including new sidewalks, brick pavers, curbs, trees, benches, waste barrels, flags on the corner, banners, flower pots, Christmas lights, ornamental street lights, light poles, the tower clock, and garden were all purchased with DDA dollars.  What's more, the yearly maintenance for all of the above is paid for by the DDA.
     Parking was identified as an economical need in drawing people to the downtown area.  Parking lots have been added east of the Town Hall and southwest of the 4-corners (behind the future Laundromat).  Yearly maintenance on these lots is also paid from DDA dollars.
     In order to add convenience for our walking residents and visitors new sidewalks were installed from the Party Store to the Stone Lodge.  Another new installation is at the end of Main Street at the Harbor.  Snow removal for all DDA District sidewalks is paid by the DDA, saving maintenance costs for our businesses.
     Are you aware that there are grants for storefronts?  The DDA matches thousands of dollars each year for qualifying businesses.
     The Harbor Park is the recipient of some not-so-obvious improvements including new electrical service and circuits that allow our events to be better served.
Notice the billboard sign at the south Village limits?  That sign was built, replaced, and is maintained by the DDA.
     Three huge projects are in the process of drastically changing the look and atmosphere of the downtown. 
The DDA bought the northwest corner (Drive On Café), raised the structure that was on it, removed the old fuel tank, cleaned up the brownfield contamination, then sold the improved lot to a developer (Lavdas Properties).  Construction is expected to begin this Spring with completion by 12/31/09.
     Have you noticed the work being done on the Blue Water Inn?  Probably not a lot yet, but the inside is being completely gutted and renovated.  This project came about because the DDA applied for and received a $150,000 grant to buy the building and contract with a developer.  Then the DDA applied for and received another $200,000 grant to refurbish the building.  This creative way to improve an empty eyesore will result in the developer owning the building within 5 years and creating 12 jobs.

     The Dry Dock building was purchased in a tax sale, cleared of all liens, then sold to a developer for the creating of a much needed Laundromat. If you drive by today you will see that the Dry Dock is no longer standing and construction on the laundromat is immenant. 
     "But wait!  That's not all!"
The DDA was instrumental in the construction of the hockey rink, the storage building at the DPW Garage, maintenance of the Harbor Park gazebo and playground equipment, and in supporting the sewer lagoon fund shortfall.
     So, the next time you might wonder where the DDA spends its money look around you.  Your tax dollars are being used to create and maintain projects that leave us with a better community!