Queens is a borough filled with emerging businesses and economic development. The City of New York helps new store owners get their feet planted and clean up underdeveloped areas at the same time by setting up Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) all over town.
Today there are 50 current BIDs in New York City, with four of them just established in December 2004, and more are expected to form in the coming years.
The Mayor’s Office describes BIDs as a district that “delivers supplemental services such as sanitation and maintenance, public safety and visitor services, marketing and promotional programs, capital improvements and beautification in a designated area. BIDs are funded by a special assessment paid by property owners within the district. The City Department of Small Business Services works with commercial property owners and businesses to assist them in forming BIDs and managing BID services on an ongoing basis.”
Any commercial, retail or industrial area in New York City may apply for BID status through a local sponsor. BIDs must be approved by the local Community Board, the City Planning Commission, the City Council and the Mayor.
