Business Improvement District Proposal Praised at State of Downtown Address

Asheville, North Carolina – March 25, 2024

Before beginning her remarks at the Asheville Downtown Association’s annual State of Downtown address on March 19, Mayor Esther Manheimer set a positive tone for the event. The gathering, held at Eulogy at Burial Beer Co., was attended by a packed audience of business owners and politicians. The mayor welcomed new Asheville Police Department Chief Mike Lamb and new Asheville Fire Chief Michael Cayse, highlighting the city’s progress in the previous year.

One of the key topics of discussion at the event was the potential establishment of a Business Improvement District (BID) in downtown Asheville. The mayor expressed her excitement about the possibility of reintroducing a BID, which was previously approved by City Council in 2012 but never funded. Mayor Manheimer stated, “I’m very excited about the opportunity, again, to try for a BID here in Asheville. We’ve hopefully set ourselves up for success”

Key Highlights from the State of Downtown Address:

• The 24-hour downtown restroom project, including the installation of a “Portland loo” near Rankin Avenue parking garage, aimed at addressing sanitation challenges in the area.
• Positive reception of the potential BID as a long-term solution to downtown issues, with Hayden Plemmons, Asheville Downtown Association executive director, voicing support for the initiative.
• Results from the association’s Downtown Stakeholder Survey, which highlighted safety and parking as top concerns among downtown employees and visitors.

During the event, Buncombe County Board of Commissioners Chair Brownie Newman commended the co-responder unit that pairs law enforcement with mental health professionals to address acute calls in the community. Newman also expressed support for proposals for low-barrier, high-access shelters to assist individuals experiencing homelessness, emphasizing the importance of diverting individuals from the criminal justice system.

Guest speaker Gerren Price, CEO and president of Washington, D.C.’s DowntownDC BID, shared insights on the success of BIDs in enhancing safety, cleanliness, and hospitality in urban areas. Price emphasized the effectiveness of BIDs in complementing city and county services and fostering a positive environment for businesses and residents.

Looking Towards the Future

With discussions ongoing about the potential establishment of a BID in downtown Asheville, stakeholders are optimistic about the opportunities it may bring for addressing community concerns and enhancing the overall downtown experience. The collaborative efforts of city officials, business owners, and community leaders pave the way for a more vibrant and sustainable downtown environment.

Asheville continues to evolve and address the challenges of urban development, initiatives like the proposed BID represent a proactive approach towards enhancing the economic and social vitality of the city’s core. The State of Downtown address served as a platform to reaffirm the commitment to downtown revitalization and the pursuit of innovative solutions for a thriving urban landscape.