Signage Project Update
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Signage Project Update |
We're excited to share that new, unified signage is being installed throughout our Village to help everyone navigate with ease. This project is all about creating a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere, making it simpler for residents and visitors alike to explore everything Elk Rapids has to offer.
Dive into the FAQs to learn more!
FAQs
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The two new gateway signs on US-31 to the north and south WILL have lighting!
Efforts are currently underway with an electrical contractor to complete the work.
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The new signage creates a unified and consistent look throughout the DDA district and the Village, making it easier for visitors to navigate and understand where they are. It also strengthens our visual identity. Just as importantly, it helps catch the attention of people driving along US 31 who may have previously passed by without realizing Elk Rapids was here. The updated signs make our community more visible, welcoming, and memorable, inviting more visitors to stop, explore, and support local businesses.
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A steering committee composed of representatives from the Village staff, Boards and Commissions, the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Elk Rapids Historical Society reviewed four initial design concepts. Two design themes were selected and presented for public input in February 2025. The results can be found here.
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In summer 2024, the DDA issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a vendor to design, fabricate, and install new signage throughout the Village. Initial installation was planned for Memorial Day 2025. Due to external delays, installation is taking place November 3-7, 2025.
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The project team, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and the vendor, is removing outdated signage and installing new components. This includes:
Two US-31 gateway signs
Three map kiosks
Pedestrian and vehicular directional signs (see map)
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Phase 1 signage focuses on the River and Ames Street districts and are taking place in November 2025. A small number of directional signs along US-31 are pending MDOT approval and are expected to be installed by the end of the year.
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In spring 2026, a new monument sign at River Street and US-31 is planned for installation. This phase still needs final design and budget approval by the DDA. Any updates to signage installed in Phase 1 will be addressed in this phase.
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The signage system is designed to be flexible and allow for future updates.
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Yes. Suggestions can be sent to DDAExecutiveDirector@elkrapids.org.
The DDA Wayfinding Committee will review all suggestions.
About the DDA
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The DDA meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the Government Center (315 Bridge St., Elk Rapids, MI 49629).
Executive Director - John Mach
E: jmach@elkrapids.org -
VISION: Elk Rapids is a year-round community offering prosperity and an amazing quality of life for all.
MISSION: Promote the overall health of the business community, while supporting commerce and strengthening the brand of Elk Rapids.
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If you are interested in joining the DDA Board, fill out an application form and either turn it in to the Village Government Center or email it to Village Clerk.
Your application will be kept on file for one year. Vacant seats on the commissions and boards are usually filled in the month of April.
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2025-10-08 | Strengthening Michigan DDAs
2025-08-13 | Elk Rapids DDA Announces Second Round of Façade Grant Funding
2025-07-30 | Elk Rapids DDA Congratulates Bos Wine on $25,000 Match on Main Grant Award
2025-03-17 | 2025-2026 Façade Grant Program Applications Now Open
2025-02-27 | Elk Rapids DDA Awarded $4,000 Matching Grant from DTE Energy Foundation
2024-11-21 | Elk Rapids DDA Awarded $5,000 Grant for Ames Street Benches Project
2024-10-29 | Elk Rapids DDA Announces Community Development Fellow Application is Live
DDA Documents & Reports
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Click here to view DDA bylaws, agendas, minutes, and other helpful documents.
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DDA Projects & Resources
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The DDA Façade Grant Program aims to stimulate private investment through the rehabilitation and enhancement of façades within the DDA District, emphasizing the support of historic preservation practices. This initiative seeks to enhance the visual appeal of building façades, thereby boosting the economic health of the DDA District.
Congratulations to 2025-2026 Round 2 Facade Grant Award Recipients!
Chalfonte Foundation/Elk Rapids Cinema
Elk Rapids Marina - 603 Bridge Street Building
Click here for more information.
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2025-02-12 | Wayfinding Survey Results Summary
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Small businesses in need of affordable financing and financial advice can visit Venture North Funding and Development.
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The DDA encourages qualified organizations and businesses that are planning events and activities within the DDA district to apply for funding support.
For more information, please download the DDA FUNDING REQUEST GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORM (PDF).
Please submit completed forms to John Mach.
Welcome to the Elk Rapids DDA
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is tasked with analyzing the impact of economic changes in the downtown district and developing plans in coordination with the Village Council and Planning Commission to promote economic revitalization and development in the DDA District.
The most recent Downtown Development Plan and Tax Increment Financing Plan was adopted in 2011.
DDA District Map
The portion of the map shaded in purple is the DDA District. The DDA's primary goals are to boost business activity, attract private money, enhance public spaces, and make the district more appealing for businesses, residents, and visitors.
For information regarding our downtown merchants, please click the button below.
