What is a Business Improvement District?

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a system by which property owners and businesses cooperate to share costs in order to address common problems or realize economic opportunities like promoting business activity or enhancing the image of an area. A BID allows businesses within a self-defined district to develop, manage, maintain and promote the district, and establish an assessment method to fund those activities.

Enabled by state statute, a BID authorizes (in coordination with NYC government) an ongoing special assessment that is used to implement various programs and activities outlined in an annual budget.

The power of a BID is that it is self-governed, enables business and property owners to improve their district in any way they want, and establishes ongoing funding. There is accountability, in that members have a say in how the money is spent, and the BID can be renewed or terminated by vote of property owners at scheduled intervals.

Eligibility: Any commercial, retail or industrial area in New York City may apply for BID status through a sponsor. BIDs must be approved by the local Community Board, the City Planning Commission, the City Council and the Mayor.

About the 86th Street BID

Since October 2001, the mission of the 86th Street Bay Ridge BID has been  to promote the general welfare of the people living and working in and utilizing the District through programs and services such as supplemental sanitation, annual holiday lighting program, seasonal banners, distribution of relevant information, streetscape improvements, general marketing and coordination with citywide service providers.

The areas of BID’s strategic focus are to: market the district as a whole, create a welcoming environment for businesses, shoppers and area visitors, and advocate for the needs and interests of the district.

The BID is governed by a Board of Directors representing business, property owners, and district stakeholders

The 86th Street BID special assessment is collected by the city and expended as directed by the Board per the BID Operating Plan. BID staff implement the programs as directed by the Board.

Current History

The 86th Street BID conducts business July 1 through June 30 each fiscal year. BID activity on 86th Street, Bay Ridge, is focused on budgeted programs and other general matters of interest to the business community. The programs for supplemental sanitation (seven days a week), and holiday lighting and participation in community events have been well received.

There are ninteen members of the Board of which nine are property owners. The BID is comprised of 132 affected properties.

The DMA Board meets six times during the year; additionally there are numerous committee meetings and a well attended Annual Meeting in June. The Board addresses administrative matters, budget priorities, marketing, local community issues, public safety, transportation, property issues, outsourcing, and many other related items. Its ultimate goal is to increase the vitality and health of the district and promote business within it. Please note programs provided by the BID are supplemental services and are not intended as a substitute for City services.

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