Berkley Marquee Undergoing Repairs

Pardon our dust... and no, this is not an early April Fools joke! The Berkley marquee lights will go dark starting April 1, 2025 as we complete some essential structural maintenance. This important work, funded by the Downtown Development Authority, includes replacing support beams and completing critical steel repairs to preserve this community landmark.

The Berkley marquee has been a point of community connection since the Berkley Theatre first opened on 12 Mile in 1941. While many residents assume the marquee is City-owned, it's actually part of the building's facade and belongs to the building's owner. When the theatre closed in 1993, the City entered into a lease agreement to continue using the marquee for community announcements. The lease agreement was renewed at the March 17, 2025, City Council meeting.

Although the City has never owned the marquee, we've proudly maintained it over the years as part of the lease terms, with repair costs averaging $15,000 annually. The shutdown will also help us determine the specific electricity costs for keeping the marquee lit, as previously these costs were covered by Rite Aid as part of the building's single electric meter.

Currently, the building that houses the iconic marquee is in a transition period, and several development opportunities are being considered. While there isn't a set date for when the marquee will shine again, please know that the City has emphasized to every prospective tenant how important this landmark is to our community. We remain hopeful about working with future tenants to preserve this special piece of Berkley's character for years to come.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work through these necessary improvements!

Berkley Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Mike McGuinness Departing

January 8, 2025

The City of Berkley and the Downtown Development Authority extend heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to our outgoing DDA Executive Director, Mike McGuinness. Director McGuinness recently announced his resignation, effective on February 14, and will be missed as he starts a new chapter in his career.

Over his nearly four-year tenure, Director McGuinness could often be found out and about around Berkley, bringing positive energy to our community events and helping to make Downtown Berkley a signature destination for residents, visitors, and business owners. Through his guidance, downtown landscaping installations were substantially increased, the downtown holiday light installations expanded, and public amenities including benches and bicycle racks were added to the streetscape. 

Under his leadership, the DDA recruited and welcomed more than two dozen new businesses to Downtown Berkley and greatly expanded its offerings:

• Created an exciting destination for Halloween lovers with BOO!kley events and programs each October

• Started an annual farmers market, bringing fresh produce and handmade wares to Robina Ave. each summer and fall

• Added a Pride celebration to our events calendar each June

• Expanded Berkley’s public art collection through a successful ongoing mural program

• Supported local businesses by providing helpful resources like façade and parking lot enhancement grants

• Launched the BOSS social district that allows 21+ residents and visitors to explore Downtown Berkley while enjoying a drink from participating restaurants 

As Director McGuinness wraps up his time in Berkley, the DDA will be searching for an Executive Director to fill the vacant position and continue the positive momentum and new initiatives launched under his leadership.

For those interested in the position opening for Berkley DDA Executive Director, follow the link here for the posting.

     Downtown Berkley: Retro Feel. Metro Appeal.

Just a short 20 minute drive from Detroit, Downtown Berkley is full of small town charm perfect for families, friends, and couples. The downtown offers two great shopping districts filled with some of Detroit's best small business owners. From great fashion and a variety of arts to hand-crafted jewelry and delicious dining, Berkley truly has it all!

To view hours for the fabulous businesses located within Downtown Berkley, please click here.

Whether this is your first or thousandth time, we thank you for visiting Downtown Berkley! #ShopLocal #DineLocal