Downtown Development Authority
About the DDA
The Grass Lake Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is a public entity established to support and guide economic development, revitalization, and infrastructure improvements within the downtown district. The DDA is responsible for implementing projects and initiatives that enhance the downtown area, promote business growth, and create a vibrant community atmosphere.
How the DDA is Funded
The DDA is primarily funded through Tax Increment Financing (TIF), a mechanism that allows the DDA to capture the increase in property tax revenue within the designated downtown district as property values grow. These funds are reinvested into downtown improvements, including streetscape projects, building façade grants, public infrastructure upgrades, and business support programs.
Additional funding sources may include:
- Grants from state and federal programs
- Private and corporate sponsorships
- Local partnerships and fundraising efforts
Who Does the DDA Report To?
The Grass Lake DDA operates under the authority of Public Act 57 of 2018, which governs downtown development authorities in Michigan. The DDA reports to the Village of Grass Lake Council, which oversees its budget, approves its development plans, and ensures alignment with the Village’s broader community and economic development goals. The DDA also collaborates with local businesses, property owners, and stakeholders to implement projects that benefit the downtown district.
Grass Lake is a vibrant community located on the eastern border of Jackson County, Michigan. Covering approximately 48 square miles, our area includes both the Village of Grass Lake (1 square mile) and Grass Lake Charter Township (47 square miles). Situated between Jackson and Ann Arbor, our town blends small-town charm with accessible urban amenities.
Who We Are
Grass Lake is home to 7,328 residents as of 2022, with 1,222 in the Village and 6,106 in the Township. The median household income is $91,337 in the township and $75,921 in the village—both higher than state and national averages. The community has seen steady growth, with a 6.8% population increase in the township and a 4.2% rise in the village from 2010 to 2022. Families make up 72.1% of area households, and 29% have children.
Downtown Grass Lake
Downtown Grass Lake is a welcoming destination where small-town charm, historic character, and new energy come together. With a growing mix of places to dine, shop, and gather, it’s a lively hub for local businesses and community events.
Outdoor Recreation
Grass Lake offers diverse recreational opportunities across over 80 acres of public parks and green spaces:
- Grass Lake County Park (9 acres): Includes a playground, picnic shelters, restrooms, a boat launch, and a swimming area.
- Grass Lake Community Sports & Trails Recreation Park (62 acres): Features 4 baseball diamonds, 5 soccer fields, and multi-use trails.
- Grass Lake Township Office Park (14 acres): Offers 3 baseball fields, disc golf, and walking trails.
- Waterloo State Recreation Area (10,000+ acres): A regional outdoor destination for hiking, biking, and camping.
- Grass Lake State Game Area (125 acres): Provides public hunting and wildlife viewing.
- Local trails: Sidewalks and multiuse trails connect residential areas to downtown and parks, with a priority project to link the Village to the Sports Park on Willis Road.
Parking
Downtown Grass Lake offers a variety of convenient parking options to support local businesses, events, and visitors:
- 220 on-site, off-street parking spaces provided by downtown businesses
- 124 designated municipal parking spaces, including:
- Municipal Lot B behind Cattlemans: 27 spaces
- Village Hall Lot A: 10 spaces
- Total parking capacity (public + private): 344+ spaces
- Overflow parking: A gravel lot ( Lot C) behind Village Hall can accommodate up to 100 additional vehicles during major events
Planned improvements include updated signage to make parking areas easier to locate for visitors.
Visit & Explore
Grass Lake is a growing community with a strong local economy, rich history, and abundant outdoor recreation. With a median age of 44.1 in the Township and 32.4 in the Village, our town attracts families, young professionals, and retirees.
Whether you’re visiting for an event, looking to start a business, or seeking a welcoming community, Grass Lake offers something for everyone!
