What is a BID?

A BID is a public/private partnership through which a special assessment is used to finance improvements or services within a designated commercial area. In simple terms, it is a self-help program activated by self-imposed assessment.

Property and business owners form BIDs to provide enhanced services in order to reverse the deterioration of their urban business environment and to compete more effectively with suburban malls. Property owners, merchants and residents in a district agree to be assessed for improvements or services, beyond those already provided by municipal government, that will benefit only those properties included in the district. The municipality collects the funds for the BID and turns them over in their entirety to the BID. The BID Board, which is composed of property owners, merchants and residents, outlines how the funds will be spent.

A BID assists in economic development, promotes the businesses and services within its district, and creates a clean, safe environment for workers, residents, and visitors.

To find out more information on the specific mission, objectives, and initiatives of the Business Improvement District of Arlington, you may contact Bob Raisch at John Lane Gallery - johnlanegallery@aol.com.

This text about BIDs is borrowed from the City of Albany's Economic Development website, www.albanyny.org

Last updated 6/8/04