Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are privately directed and publicly sanctioned organizations that supplement public services within geographically defined boundaries by generating multiyear revenue through a compulsory assessment of local property owners and/or businesses. PBIds are managed by public or nonprofit boards, predominantly with local business representation, often including residents and local governments.

BIDs create collective economic benefits for their members that cannot be achieved individually. The BID model is similar to the special assessment value capture technique, as both concepts capitalize on incremental tax assessments levied on properties within a defined geographic area that are directed toward improvement purposes within the district. BIDs often rely on other sources of revenue, in addition to the tax assessment, to fund their operations.  Learn more.

PBIDs fund services that supplement those provided by the city. These services can include additional security, beautification efforts, marketing, and event programming. The result is a downtown that is more attractive to residents, businesses, and visitors alike. PBIDs also provide a mechanism for downtown property owners to have a collective voice in decision-making about issues that affect their properties. By pooling resources and working together, PBIDs are able to make a significant impact on the quality of life in downtown neighborhoods.