News Summary
Asheville’s City Council has approved the establishment of a Business Improvement District (BID) to enhance safety and cleanliness in downtown. Funded by local property owners, the initiative will allocate $700,000 for hiring ambassadors trained in de-escalation and anti-racism, alongside $300,000 for cleaning efforts. The BID represents a collaborative community effort to rejuvenate downtown Asheville, encouraging residents to participate in shaping its future.
Asheville Takes a Big Step Toward a Cleaner, Safer Downtown!
Asheville residents and visitors alike have something to celebrate! The Asheville City Council has put its stamp of approval on a new initiative aimed at sprucing up the city’s downtown area. Say hello to the Business Improvement District (BID), a community-focused program designed to boost both safety and cleanliness right in the heart of Asheville.
What’s the Buzz About the BID?
So, what exactly is the Business Improvement District all about? The purpose of the BID is simple: to enhance the vibrancy and economic vitality of Downtown Asheville. This new venture will be managed by the Asheville Downtown Improvement District (ADID), and it’s all about creating a downtown experience that feels welcoming and lively for everyone.
The newly formed BID comes after a comprehensive request for proposals process, which saw the backing of important local organizations like the Asheville Downtown Association and the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce. After months of planning, the Asheville City Council voted 6-1 to bring the BID to life. This is a significant moment for the community, focusing on two main objectives: enhancing safety and improving cleanliness.
How Will It Work?
The plan is straightforward but impactful. Property owners in the area will contribute through a special tax to fund added services not typically provided by the city. A big chunk of the initial $1.25 million budget, or $700,000 to be precise, will be allocated to hiring downtown ambassadors. These friendly faces will not only help keep the area safe, but they’ll also receive specialized training in anti-racism and de-escalation, aiming to connect those in need with essential resources.
Furthermore, about $300,000 will be dedicated to enhanced cleaning efforts, ensuring those sidewalks shine and that trash is promptly taken care of. The BID will cover key locations in Asheville, such as Pritchard Park and the South Slope, drawing boundaries along I-240, Knoxville Place, and several other streets to define its area of operation.
The Board: Your Community Voices
Voting members of this board will be a mix of various stakeholders: four commercial property owners, four business renters, three residential property owners, three residential renters, a representative from The Block, a representative from the Continuum of Care, and one at-large representative. It’s all about bringing together voices from different sectors—think food and beverage, entertainment, hospitality, office, and retail—ensuring every corner of Downtown Asheville is represented.
Get Involved!
If you’re interested in being part of this exciting initiative, nominations for the ADID Board are open until Thursday, March 20. Interested candidates can submit their applications online, making it easier for everyone to have a say in the decisions that affect their neighborhood.
The board will hold itself accountable, operating under North Carolina’s public records and open meetings laws, ensuring transparency is a priority. Plus, annual public input will be actively sought, along with formal evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the BID’s initiatives.
A Bright Future Ahead
With the Business Improvement District ready to roll, and a dedicated board waiting to guide its operations, it seems clear that the future looks bright for Downtown Asheville. Whether you’re a long-term resident or just passing through, expect to see a rejuvenated, bustling downtown that everyone can enjoy!
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: Asheville Business Improvement District Approved
- Wikipedia: Business Improvement District
- AVLtoday: Asheville City Council Approves Downtown BID
- Google Search: Asheville Business Improvement District
- WLOS: BID Passes First Vote
- Google News: Asheville Downtown Safety
