June 4, 2026
City Council Approves $4.2 Million Downtown Revitalization Package
Millbrook's city council voted 6-1 Tuesday night to approve a sweeping downtown improvement plan, unlocking $4.2 million in state and local funds for streetscaping, facade grants, and new public spaces.
MILLBROOK, June 3 — The Millbrook City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday night to greenlight a $4.2 million downtown revitalization package, the largest single investment in the city's commercial core in over a decade. The lone dissenting vote came from Councilmember Darlene Voigt, who argued the plan lacked sufficient provisions for affordable retail space and small business protections.
What the Money Will Cover
According to city documents, roughly $1.8 million will go toward streetscape improvements along Harwick Avenue, including new sidewalks, decorative lighting, and expanded outdoor seating zones. Another $1.1 million is set aside for a competitive facade grant program open to any business owner within the Millbrook Central Business District. The remaining funds will be split between a new pocket park near the old Fenwick Building site and an upgraded public restroom facility near the farmers market pavilion. Mayor Carlos Ibanez called the vote "a turning point for downtown," adding that construction on the first phase is expected to begin by late September.
- Harwick Avenue streetscaping: $1.8 million
- Business facade grant program: $1.1 million
- Pocket park and public amenities: $1.3 million
Downtown business owners who attended Tuesday's packed council chamber were largely enthusiastic, though several raised concerns about construction disruption during the holiday shopping season. City Manager Priya Holloway said staff would work with contractors to minimize lane closures and sidewalk blockages during peak retail months. A public open house on the project timeline is scheduled for June 18 at the Millbrook Community Center.
