The Future Vision for Downtown Farmington with DDA Jessica Westendorf
Downtown Farmington serves as a central place not only for its residents but also for neighboring communities that lack a formal downtown. In this concluding conversation, T.R. Carr and Jessica Westendorf extend a warm invitation to explore a walkable and welcoming district.
An Invitation to Everyone
“Come visit us. Downtown Farmington is for everyone. We serve as the downtown for the city of Farmington as well as Farmington Hills and the city of Livonia. It is walkable. You can park, there is parking aplenty. Come to the farmer’s market on a Saturday from nine a.m. to two, and come experience all the shops we have. We have a wonderful mix of locally owned businesses, niche retail, fantastic foods and a great nightlife scene with a social district that allows you to grab a beverage to go and stroll around the downtown.”
Visitors can browse independent bookstores, record shops and coffee houses while enjoying the relaxed pace of a social district where beverages are allowed outdoors. For details on the market schedule and vendors, explore the Farmington Farmers & Artisans Market.
Building Community
“If you walk in downtown Farmington and wave at a stranger, they will wave back. With our public spaces that we have built over the last several years, including Riley Park, it is fighting that loneliness epidemic. You can come by yourself and make new friends or bring your friends with you.”
The culture of friendliness is intentional. Parks and plazas like Riley Park and Masons Corner provide places for conversation. To learn about these gathering spots, visit the Public Spaces page.
A Place for Every Need
“We have everything you need. There is an urgent care just outside of our downtown, physical therapy and all of the entertainment spots as well.”
Within a short walk you can find healthcare, professional services, music, a farmers market, a historic theater and restaurants. The Main Street award recognizes that this diverse mix results from decades of disciplined work. For more about the award, see the Great American Main Street Award announcement.
