OUR PROGRAMS

Physical Revitalization

FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM – The purpose of the Façade Improvement Program is to provide design standards for the buildings that make up the 4.5 miles of the Van Dyke Corridor. The Façade Improvement Program offers financial assistance to business owners who make exterior improvements. Businesses can apply for matching grants for architectural assistance, façade improvements or new signage.

GATEWAY DESIGN AND STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS – With over 20,000 vehicles crossing the intersection of Van Dyke and 8 Mile daily, V8 envisions harnessing the activity as a catalyst for physical and economic development. With the assistance of an architectural design firm, V8 has been working on a proposed “Gateway” design feature that will be located at the 8 Mile/Van Dyke Intersection.

Business Development

BUSINESS OVER BREAKFAST SPEAKER FORUM – Although the V8 commercial corridor has experienced decline and disinvestment recent, there remain businesses that have withstood the economic challenges that have impacted the community. In an effort to support these businesses the bi-monthly Business Over Breakfast Forums provide expert advice to local entrepreneurs on topics vital to small business enterprise.

ENTREPRENEURIAL TRAINING – The “NxLevel® Entrepreneurial Training is a nationally recognized course for existing small businesses. It offers a comprehensive, hands-on approach to assist business owners in learning how to use planning and goal setting to take control of their business. Business owners create strategic business plans, under the guidance of a certified trainer. Classes feature guest speakers including bankers, attorneys, accountants, and marketing experts who present real world examples and solutions for small business owners in today’s economy. Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, as a member of V8, has been instrumental in making these classes available to business owners in the Van Dyke corridor.
Enhancing Quality of Life

Enhancing The Quality of Life

BEAUTIFICATION – The Practical Homes and Gardens Program is a workshop designed to aid homeowners in methods of garden maintenance and low-cost home improvement. The program is a four-week series of classes that focus on façade and landscaping improvements. Participants develop a landscaping plan with Master Gardener volunteers, and receive additional resources to maintain their property if they complete all the workshops. Through the Practical Homes and Gardens program, V8 seeks to support the beautification of its residential areas.

LINK CROSS-COUNTY GREENWAY SYSTEMS – V8 has ambitious plans to link neighborhoods in Warren and Detroit through an aesthetically pleasing linear park (greenway) system. The pathway builds upon existing plans on both sides of 8 Mile Road. The park will provide a safe alternative for un-motorized travel and influence outdoor recreation.

GATEWAY SPRING CLEAN – In May of 2006, over 80 individuals from both sides of 8 Mile Road came out to participate in the first ever V8 Gateway Clean-Up effort. The cities of Detroit, Warren and Center Line donated supplies and committed to supporting this clean-up as an annual event. Area businesses publicly thanked V8 for their efforts, and continue to make improvements to their properties. Due to the overwhelming success, V8 will make this an annual event, with the hopes of attracting more residents and community members over time.