A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an
association of business people within a specified district
who join together, with official approval of the City, in
a self-help program aimed at stimulating local business.
They use their own money in an ongoing effort to draw more
prospective customers to their area by improving the attractiveness
of the area and promoting it as a good place to shop, visit
and do business.
Once a BIA is approved by City Council, every business
within its boundaries automatically becomes a member. There
are no exceptions, under the principle that all who benefit
should be required to bear their fair share of the cost
of the program.
While a BIA arises from the retail and professional activities
of a main street, it has a profound effect on the surrounding
area. It serves as an economic and social anchor, helping
to stabilize and revitalize the local community.
|