Business Improvement District (BID)
In 1999, UPtown Columbus, Inc. championed the legislation for the creation and management of Business Improvement District. Property owners within the 47-block area pay a special assessment above their regular property taxes. This assessment is collected by the City of Columbus and the City contracts with the BID to provide and manage BID services.
The Business Improvement Distrct is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization facilitates and coordinates economic revitalization initiatives throughout Uptown area through:
BID Services
- Maintenance
- Marketing & Special Events
- Security Enhancement
- Safety & Hospitality Ambassadors
Ambassador Force
The Columbus BID Ambassadors, better known as "Purple People", patrol the streets of UPtown Columbus seven days a week courteously providing directions, information and assistance to visitors, patrons, property owners, business owners and employees in the BID District. The BID Ambassadors help ensure that all who visit UPtown enjoy the experience so they will likely visit the area again. They stay abreast of the area events and activities as well as the location of major attractions in the community. They act as couriers and escorts. They enhance public safety, serving as "eyes and ears" on the street, by reporting all the street and safety hazards, and violations of safety codes and ordinances. The presence of ambassadors on the street aids in overall crime prevention and reduces street disorder. Ambassador patrols and reporting deter panhandling, illegal street vending, street maintenance problems and unsuitable behavior.
Clean and Maintenance Team
The Columbus Business Improvement District maintains a superior level of cleanliness and maintenance on the streets and sidewalks of Uptown Columbus. The BID specializes in providing the business and property owners a clean and safe program customized to their needs. The Clean Team works seven days a week in the Central Business District and continues to receive glowing comments. Our program includes litter prevention and control, mechanical sweeping, pressure washing , reporting of maintenance problems to the appropriate agency and removal of graffiti and illegal postings. Members of our clean team also act as ambassadors providing information and assistance to the public. They keep all blocks free of dirt, trash, leaves and debris, remove weeds and report environmental issues.
Security Enhancement
Police officers are provided on weekends and holidays to provide additional security for the Uptown area.
Marketing and Special Events
Throughout the year marketing strategies are put in place and events are staged to bring more visitors to Uptown. |
