Downtown Cadillac Update: Summer Events, Streetscape Improvements, and Planning for the Future
August brought another busy month to Downtown Cadillac, with community events, beautification projects, business resources, and long-term planning efforts all helping shape the future of downtown.
Summer Block Party Continues to Grow
Thank you to the businesses, organizations, volunteers, and attendees who helped make the Mitchell Street Market Summer Block Party a success.
The event featured live music, vendor booths, bounce houses, flower stations, water games, mini golf, street hockey, Zumba, animal encounters, and more. While attendance was slightly impacted by extreme temperatures, the event expanded this year by welcoming additional vendors, new businesses, and multiple live music performances.
The DDA Events Committee is now gathering feedback as planning begins for next year’s event.
Brushing Up Downtown
Several recent projects have helped enhance Downtown Cadillac’s appearance.
Volunteers and sponsors partnered to refresh a downtown building façade, while the Cadillac Printing Company building received a fresh coat of paint that further highlights its colorful mural.
These improvements demonstrate how relatively small investments can strengthen curb appeal, create a more welcoming environment, and inspire additional revitalization efforts throughout downtown.
Businesses interested in future painting or façade improvement opportunities are encouraged to connect with the DDA.
Walking Audits Support Future Downtown Improvements
The City of Cadillac is exploring opportunities through a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant that could support two major downtown improvements:
- Restoration of Mitchell Street’s historic brick sidewalks
- Potential lane reduction along Mitchell Street to improve safety and accessibility
To help guide the planning process, community members recently participated in downtown walking audits to identify opportunities, challenges, and priorities for future improvements.
Public feedback will continue to play an important role as planning moves forward.
Small Business Round-Up Returns on September 4
Downtown businesses are invited to attend the next Small Business Round-Up on September 4 at After 26 Depot Café.
Topics include:
- The CTC Culinary, Baking and Hospitality Program
- Buy Local, Spend Local initiatives
- Economic Vitality Committee updates
- Open discussion about challenges facing downtown businesses
The monthly gatherings provide an opportunity for business owners to connect, share ideas, and collaborate on future downtown initiatives.
Destination Business Grant Opportunity
Applications are now open for the Destination Business Grant Program through the Michigan Downtown Association and PlaceMaking.
The program includes an eight-week destination creation course, technical assistance, accountability support, and access to business development resources designed to help businesses become stronger visitor destinations. Applications are due September 5, 2025.
