For many years, critics questioned whether Southfield had a true "Downtown" and the DDA's attempts to create one were not always well-received. However, city officials say a steady stream of redevelopment successes has given the district a reputation not only as an area with significant history but also one with a vital future.

For example, the opening of the new Outback Steakhouse at Greenfield and Providence Drive constitutes the first phase of "The Village at Cornerstone," a mixed-use redevelopment project consisting of 180 townhomes and three retail/service pads.

Most recently, the authority spearheaded the replacement of all traffic signage with designer "Cornerstone" signs bearing the new district logo.

The new business name puts to rest a 14-year debate and identifies the Cornerstone District not as a downtown, but as the foundation of one of the nation's first suburbs.

Four years ago, the city had approved the name Cornerstone District to identify the area surrounding Northland Shopping Center and Providence Hospital.

City representatives and board members agreed that the authority's identity should correlate with the naming of the district.

The authority was created by city charter in 1988 as an official Downtown Development Authority under state statute.