Rivertown Business Improvement Zone Launched and Board of Directors Seated April 1
First meeting marks transition from approval to implementation of services in Rivertown
DETROIT – The Rivertown Business Improvement Zone (Rivertown BIZ) officially launched and held the inaugural meeting of its board of directors on Wednesday, April 1.
The meeting took place at The Thome Rivertown Senior Apartments in Detroit. Rivertown BIZ board meetings are open to the public in accordance with Michigan’s Open Meetings Act.
At the start of the meeting, the board of directors was formally sworn in by Detroit City Clerk Janice M. Winfrey, who told the newly appointed members and attendees, “This is what local democracy looks like,” underscoring the community-driven nature of the Rivertown BIZ.
During the meeting, the board took foundational actions, including adopting bylaws, electing officers, engaging an attorney, selecting Rivertown’s Diversified Members Credit Union as its financial institution, setting a meeting schedule and budget framework, and approving an administrative agreement with the Downtown Detroit Partnership.
“The inaugural board meeting is a pivotal moment for Rivertown,” said Gina Cavaliere, chief community impact officer for the Downtown Detroit Partnership and executive director of the Downtown Detroit BIZ. “With the board formally convened, the Rivertown BIZ can begin delivering on its promise to create a cleaner, safer and more welcoming environment that supports businesses, property owners and the broader community.”
From Approval to Action
In January, Rivertown property owners voted to establish the Rivertown Business Improvement Zone, with authorization from the Detroit City Council and administration of the election by the Detroit City Clerk.
The district includes 294 assessable commercial parcels and is expected to generate approximately $800,000 annually and nearly $10 million over 10 years.
A business improvement zone provides services to property owners to help create a vibrant community that is clean, safe and a welcoming environment for tenants, businesses and all neighborhood stakeholders.
Collaborative Leadership
The Rivertown BIZ is led by stakeholders, including three Rivertown neighborhood nonprofits: Jefferson East, Inc., the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and the Rivertown Detroit Association. The Downtown Detroit Partnership served as the technical lead throughout the establishment process and now serves as the administrator, providing expertise and efficiencies based on its management of the Downtown Detroit Business Improvement Zone.
“This milestone reflects years of collaboration and shared commitment to Rivertown’s future,” said Arthur “Chip” Rohde, Jr., Rivertown Detroit Association, Arthur J. Rohde & Company, and Rivertown BIZ Board Chair. With the board now in place, we are ready to move forward with implementation and deliver meaningful, visible improvements for the neighborhood. Like several of my fellow board members and Rivertown neighbors, my family has owned and operated real estate and businesses in Rivertown for generations, and I have never been more optimistic about the opportunities ahead.”
The Rivertown BIZ board of directors, elected by Rivertown property owners when they voted to approve the BIZ, is comprised of business leaders, property owners and community stakeholders who reflect the strength, breadth and diversity of the Rivertown district, many of whom are Rivertown residents.
Board members include Lenny Barnes, Heritage Vision Plans, Inc.; Roger Basmajian, Basco of Michigan, Inc.; Chris Brownell, The Kirlin Company; Brian Carnaghi, Presbyterian Villages of Michigan; Josh Elling, Jefferson East, Inc.; Aamir Farooqi, Banyan Investments, LLC; Franz Herbert, Princeton Enterprises, LLC; Vince Little, Pembury Holdings; Bob Maxey, Bob Maxey Ford, Inc.; Arthur “Chip” J. Rohde, Jr., Rivertown Detroit Association and Arthur J. Rohde & Company; Nadia Sesay, Bedrock Management Services LLC; Tonja Stapleton, Parkstone Development Partners; Ryan Sullivan, Detroit Riverfront Conservancy; and Jacqueline C. Young, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation. The City of Detroit is additionally appointing its representative.
Representing organizations across real estate, economic development, small business and community investment, this cross-sector leadership will guide the strategic direction and implementation of services to support a clean, safe and vibrant Rivertown.
Public Access
The meeting location is barrier-free and accessible. Meeting minutes and all official records are available for public inspection in accordance with state law.
The next Rivertown BIZ board meeting is scheduled for April 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at Thome Rivertown Senior Apartments. The public is welcome.
For more information about the Rivertown BIZ, please visit RivertownDetroitBIZ.org.
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About the Rivertown Business Improvement Zone
The Rivertown Business Improvement Zone (Rivertown BIZ) is a public body corporate established under Michigan law to support a clean, safe and vibrant Rivertown neighborhood. Initiated and approved by property owners and authorized by the City of Detroit, the Rivertown BIZ provides supplemental services that enhance economic vitality, strengthen the business environment and improve the experience for residents, workers and visitors. The district includes 294 assessable commercial parcels and is expected to generate approximately $800,000 annually to fund services such as maintenance, safety, beautification and district marketing. Governed by a board of directors representing property owners and community stakeholders, the Rivertown BIZ works in collaboration with local partners to preserve and enhance property values and support long-term neighborhood growth. Learn more at RivertownDetroitBIZ.org.
About the Downtown Detroit Partnership
Since 1922, the Downtown Detroit Partnership (DDP) has worked to cultivate social and economic impact in Downtown Detroit. As a member-based nonprofit, the DDP convenes civic, corporate, community, and philanthropic partners to create a vibrant and world-class urban core. As a leader in Downtown urban innovation, the organization also provides small business support and manages, programs, and stewards 18 parks and public spaces throughout Downtown Detroit. Learn more at DowntownDetroit.org and engage on social media @DowntownDet.
