The Saginaw Downtown Development Authority was created in 1981 for the interests of the public to halt property value deterioration and increase property valuation where possible in the City’s business districts. The purpose is to bolster economic development, redevelopment and activity within the DDA district. The district is contained within downtown and encompasses much of the city including the Old Town Business District, East Genesee Avenue Corridor, Covenant Hospital District, the Riverfront, Cathedral District, and the Central Business District. 
All decisions are control by a board of 13 volunteer members consisting of property and business owners, residents, and others with vested interest in the district.
The DDA has recently been approved for a 2 mill levy which allows for the collection of funds for projects throughout the DDA district. These projects will be aimed at increasing safety in the downtown, beautification of streets, sidewalks and buildings, and providing assistance to businesses who have a stake in the community through employment, business ownership, residency or otherwise. Public meetings are held the 4th Tuesday of every month at 3:30 P.M. in the City Hall Council Chambers.
The Saginaw DDA seeks to achieve the following goals by working with the community and community partners:
- Increase the number of jobs in the DDA district.
- Attract new business, business expansion and economic opportunity in the DDA district.
- Redevelop blighted properties to increase marketability and improve aesthetics.
Saginaw Downtown Development Authority Board Members
Executive Board
Darrick Huff
Amy Spadafore
Herb Spence III
Eric Tankersley
Adam Tompa
Denny Whalen
Student Representative, Demiyah Barlow
Saginaw Downtown Development Staff Members
