About the DDA
The state of Michigan passed the Downtown Development Authority Act (PA 197 of 1975) to give municipalities a tool for improving the quality of downtown areas. At this time there are approximately 350 DDAs in communities throughout Michigan. The City of Ann Arbor created the Ann Arbor DDA (Ordinance No. 14-82) in 1982 and renewed it in 2003 with a substantial amendment to its original Development Plan. Over its history, the DDA has been a significant and influential catalyst for the revitalization and renewal of downtown Ann Arbor.
The work of the DDA is done by a small staff and a Board of twelve citizens appointed by the Mayor and City Council. DDA members volunteer their time, talent, and expertise to the DDA for the benefit of the downtown. They serve four-year terms and work through committees to accomplish the goals of the DDA.