July 25, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MEDIA CONTACTS:
BBC President JOE BAUMAN joeb@bbcc.com (248) 430-6135
BBC Board Chair SUNNY CONNOLLY sconnolly@pattersonbryant.com

BIRMINGHAM BLOOMFIELD CHAMBER ENDORSES AUG. 6 BOND ELECTION IN BIRMINGHAM
The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce has endorsed the Aug. 6 bond proposal in the city of Birmingham to secure financing for the replacement of the North Old Woodward parking structure and an extension of Bates Street.
In making its endorsement, the Chamber Board of Directors noted the project will address a shortage of public parking in the northern portion of downtown and serve as the catalyst for the planned Woodward Bates Project, which has the potential to transform the North Old Woodward corridor and bring a much-needed new commercial anchor in the form of a new Restoration Hardware to the downtown.
If approved by voters, the entire cost of the new parking structure and street expansion will be financed through the city’s existing parking system. The project in general, and the extension of Bates Street in particular, was first called for 20 years ago in the city’s 2016 Master Plan, which has been largely implemented since its inception.
Board Chair Sunny Connolly pledged the Chamber will work closely with the city of Birmingham and the Birmingham Shopping District to find creative solutions for the loss of parking during construction as well as partner on special events and programs to keep shoppers coming to the corridor.
“Just as we did with the reconstruction of Old Woodward last year, the Chamber will be working daily to support our members and all merchants during construction of this much needed project,” Connolly said. “We realize this project will be disruptive for many businesses in the impact zone, but the entire Woodward Bates Development has the potential to be transformational for the northern corridor and bringing an outstanding company like Restoration Hardware to town will increase foot traffic and revenue for the entire central business district.”
Connolly noted that, ultimately, Birmingham residents have the right to determine how they want their downtown to look and feel.
“We respect the residents’ right to decide, but the Chamber feels strongly this vote is the first step in securing a vibrant and successful downtown for years to come. Its importance can’t be overstated.”
The Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber is a membership organization dedicated to promoting the economic development, strengthen the business climate and improve the quality of life in the six communities it serves, Beverly Hills, Bingham Farms, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township and Franklin. For more information, visit www.bbcc.com.