WHAT IS A BID?
A Business Improvement District (BID) is a public /private partnership in which property owners and commercial tenants make a collective contribution to the maintenance, development, and promotion of their commercial district. There are over 76 BIDs currently in NYC with 23 right here in Brooklyn. BID programs provide programs and services for each of their neighborhoods, driving traffic,increasing commercial business and solidify the overall value of their districts.
BID programs may include the following services: sanitation, maintenance,beautification, greening initiatives, street-scaping (trees, flower boxes, decorations), community marketing, small business promotion, public safety, city and state advocacy, holiday decorations, tourism services, parenting and elderly assistance programs, and much more.
WHY HERE, WHY NOW?
While BID programs serve a multitude of purposes, the most important is how they strengthen the commercial backbone of their individual communities. While our district is already a great place to live, raise families, work and create businesses, it can be stronger. The city can only do so much for its many great neighborhoods and our current city services, no matter how great, are inadequate for meeting our community’s needs and desires to beautify its streets and promote its businesses. The BID will strengthen critical services and provide an organized voice and advocacy for the local property owners and commercial tenants. Smith Street has always been an important commercial corridor of the Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill and Carroll Gardens area. With MANY expenses soaring overnight these days, your involvement is essential to preserve our neighborhoods greatest attributes. Let’s help ensure that our great storefronts have the community’s support to grow for many generations to come.
