Downtown Development Authority to Consider New Restaurant Attraction Grant, Façade Improvements

On a stretch of Wayne Road where vacant storefronts have become familiar, the Westland Downtown Development Authority was set to weigh grants of up to $41,437 for two façade projects and adopt a new Restaurant Attraction Grant Policy — decisions that could determine whether public incentives produce lasting business anchors or simply fresher-looking buildings.

The DDA held its meeting June 25, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. at Westland City Hall, 36300 Warren Road. Along with the grant proposals, the agenda included approval of a consulting services contract with Modern Consulting, LLC.

The two proposed façade grants would direct public development incentives to Wayne Road properties. Smoler Smiles, at 820 N. Wayne Road, applied for up to $16,437. A second application sought up to $25,000 for 240 North Wayne Road.

Under the Westland DDA Facade Improvement Program, applicants can be reimbursed for up to 75% of project costs, capped at $25,000 per property owner over a 12-month period. The program prioritizes projects that show blight conditions, support the startup of new businesses or expansion of existing businesses, or make permanent improvements to the DDA district. Applicants must be current on special assessments, and business entities must submit a State of Michigan certificate of good standing.

The façade program's published eligibility criteria do not include explicit job creation requirements or accountability metrics. The publicly available agenda also does not specify whether the new Restaurant Attraction Grant Policy — intended to bring dining establishments to downtown Westland — includes hiring targets, lease-duration commitments or other accountability provisions.

The proposals come as Westland continues to face conspicuous commercial vacancy. Westland Mall was 54.3% vacant as of March 2026. City leaders have also invested in Nankin Square, a 3.2-acre public space between Warren and Wayne roads designed to boost walkability and spur downtown development. The $12 million project — built on the site of a former Service Merchandise store that had become a blighted, vacant property — includes an amphitheater, walking trails, a nature play area and food-truck space, largely funded through the city's Tax Increment Finance Authority and other grants.

The DDA is governed by a board appointed by Westland Mayor Kevin Coleman and approved by City Council. Robert Kelly chairs the board, and Sharon Scott serves as vice chair. Other members are Joleen Bowman, Aaron Brown, Ralph Cabildo, Jason Freese, Melandie Hines, Anita Murray and Jake Rea.

Westland residents can access DDA agendas, meeting minutes, board rosters and program policies through the city's website and attend future meetings at Westland City Hall. Whether grant recipients complete their projects, remain open for business and create jobs in the Wayne Road corridor will determine whether taxpayer investment delivers durable neighborhood anchors or another round of cosmetic improvements.