BRIGHTON, Mich.— Lake Trust Credit Union has launched the Downtown Brighton Small Business Relief Fund in partnership with the Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Brighton’s Downtown Development Authority (Brighton DDA). Through the relief fund, Lake Trust said it is committing $24,000 in support to local businesses impacted by the Streetscape project.
The city of Brighton Streetscape Project, led by the Brighton DDA, is currently in its second phase and plans to complete construction in late 2023.
According to the credit union, the project aims to reimagine the city’s downtown area by refreshing downtown streets, sidewalks and infrastructure and creating new and improved community spaces. Many of the city’s streets and roads have been temporarily closed for construction, limiting access to nearby businesses.
“Although the Streetscape project will have a positive lasting impact on Brighton, we recognize the short-term challenges that several area businesses will face as a result,” said David Snodgrass, president and CEO of Lake Trust. “Lake Trust welcomes the opportunity to collaborate with our local partners to lift up local businesses, as a reflection of our commitment to create stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods — which our small business relief fund will do.”
Effective Sept. 18-Oct. 15, 2023, or until all funds are exhausted, affected businesses can apply to receive up to $2,000 each to help support their needs — from paying electric bills to covering the cost of supplies and more. As part of the process, applicants will be asked to explain why they are requesting funding, how the dollars will be applied and how the Streetscape project has impacted their business.
In addition to spearheading the relief fund, the Lake Trust Foundation has also launched a donation page to allow the Livingston County community to help support these downtown businesses. The additional funds raised will help to fill the gap and minimize the negative impact on Brighton businesses, Lake Trust CU said.