Downtown Spokane’s Business Improvement District (BID) is a collective investment in the health, vitality and success of our urban core. Managed by the Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP), the BID supplements City services through dedicated, locally funded programs that support clean and safe streets, strengthen local businesses, attract visitors, and enhance the downtown experience. But what does that investment look like in action? Here are 10 things to know about how the BID works, where resources go, and how these efforts help move downtown Spokane forward.
10 BID to Know Facts
1) The BID supplements City services. It doesn’t replace them.
BID programs provide additional resources and attention beyond existing municipal services. City services remain essential, while BID-funded teams help address downtown-specific needs and priorities.
2) The BID is funded by downtown investors, not general tax dollars.
BID programs are funded through annual assessments paid by participating downtown property owners and business tenants. These investments, combined with private contributions, grants, and DSP support, create additional resources dedicated to downtown’s success.
3) BID investments stay focused on downtown.
Since 1995, downtown property owners and business tenants have collectively invested in programs specifically benefiting the area where assessments are collected. These resources are dedicated to downtown priorities, not general citywide programs.
4) Downtown support doesn’t take a day off.
BID Ambassadors work seven days a week, providing safety, security, and hospitality support to employees, residents, businesses, and visitors. Their presence helps create a more welcoming and supported downtown experience.
5) A cleaner downtown takes a team effort.
The BID Clean Team works throughout downtown to remove litter, address graffiti, clear sidewalks, and maintain planters. These daily efforts make a visible difference in the places where people work, shop, dine, and gather.
6) Downtown employees are part of the BID’s community.
From supporting the daily experience of office workers to creating opportunities for engagement and connection, the BID invests in making downtown a better place to work, not just a place to do business.
7) Strong storefronts make a stronger downtown.
The BID supports ground-floor retailers, promotes local businesses, encourages investment, and works to improve downtown tenancy. A healthy mix of businesses creates destinations, attracts customers, and adds vitality to our streets.
8) More reasons to visit mean more opportunities for business.
Through cooperative marketing, events, and downtown activations, the BID helps bring people downtown to shop, dine, explore, and experience everything local businesses have to offer.
9) The little details make a big difference.
From maintaining planters and supporting public art to enhancing lighting and public spaces, BID investments help create a downtown that feels more inviting, attractive, and connected.
10) Downtown vitality depends on more than what happens on the sidewalk.
The BID supports mobility, parking initiatives, and urban planning efforts that help improve accessibility, connectivity, and the overall downtown experience for businesses and visitors.