"The journal has interesting and thought provoking articles covering a wide range of topics. The articles are written by highly competent participants from the industry that can give a good insight in to its various areas."
Business improvement districts and the influence of historical community development: The Forest Avenue and South Shore BIDs of New York City
Click the button below to access the full article.
Abstract: Business improvement districts (BIDs) have become increasingly prevalent entities in urban neighbourhoods and communities. BIDs are non-profit organisations established to deliver public services and improve economic conditions by imposing additional assessments on property owners. BIDs are invariably intertwined with the communities they are established to serve, and as a result understanding the complex relationship between BIDs and communities is imperative. This paper seeks to evaluate the role historical community development and community actors play in the development and implementation of BIDs by utilising a case study analysis of two BIDs in the New York City borough of Staten Island. Findings from this study reveal that historical patterns of community development are the principal determinant of the organisational objectives and budget allocation of BIDs. Further research concerning the interconnection between communities and BIDs is also suggested.
Keywords: business improvement districts, community development, local governance, urban revitalisation, public–private partnerships
Dan Ziebarth is an MA candidate in the Graduate School of Arts and Science at Fordham University. His article ‘Mixed-income housing in St. George, Staten Island’ was published in the February 2018 issue of Local Economy.