Downtown Flushing Transit Hub Business Improvement District
This is the logo of the BID in Flushing, Queens.
Photo Credit: Flushing BID 1
Overview
Business Improvement District (BID) is a non-profit organization that tries to provide services to improve city life of a defined geographical area. It is funded by additional property taxes that property owners in the area agree to pay. Downtown Flushing Transit Hub Business Improvement District is in charge of the business center in Flushing.[1]
The Flushing BID was formed in September 2009 and it was the 45th BID in New York City. It was the first BID of Mayor Bloomberg’s administration. It has the mission to look for new programs to promote the commercial district while providing cost0effective services to its members. It hopes to unlock the potential of Flushing and make Flushing a “destination of choice” for everyone by bridging the City government and business community. The BID believes that Flushing has the characteristics to be the “destination of choice”, which are rich history, busy transit hub, active commercial district and strong financial strength.2
This is a map of the streets and area that the Flushing Bid is responsible for.
Photo Credit: Flushing BID [1]
Objectives
The Flushing BID aims to provide services to add to the level of services the City is already providing. It’s main objective is to improve the quality of life for those who live, work, shop, and visit in Flushing. The BID has a strong supportive force to help carry out its mission and objective. The supportive force and elected officals includes Council Member Perter Koo, Senator Toby Ann Stavisky, Assembly Member Grace Meng, and Community Board 7.
Services
Sanitation Services
Photo Credit: Flushing BID3
The sanitation services is composed of a cleaning team managed by Atlantic Maintenance Corporation that cleans sidewalks and empties public trashcan everyday. They have 10 full0time maintenance workers. This service is vital in keeping Flushing a beautiful neighborhood.[3]
Holiday Lighting
This service is managed by New York City Christmas Lights and Decorating, Ltd. It put up universal snowflake centerpieces from Thanksgiving through the end of Lunar New Year to help celebrate for the holidays.[3]
Banner Program
The BID banner program changes 3′ by 8′ posters on the lamp posts three times a year to accustom to the changing seasons. It is also open to sponsorship of the local business community that can be an additional funding resource for the BID. The program aims to encourage business activity in the area. [3]
Capital Project
The BID sponsor a capital project to improve the streetscape of downtown Flushing by maintain new amenities like street lights, sidewalks, historic signs, and a sitting area. The project is funded by the City with 5 million dollars worth of investment. [3]