On Tuesday, Jan. 14, the Asheville City Council voted 5-to-1 to authorize the city manager to enter into an agreement with the Asheville Downtown Community Improvement District for downtown delivery. Business Improvement District (BID) Services in their regular meetings. After a competitive selection process, the contract was awarded to the leading service provider, Asheville Downtown Improvement District (ADID), a partnership formed by the Asheville Downtown Association, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce, and NextStreet (MWBE) based in Asheville, NC.
The proposed initial contract term is for 3-years with two optional 1-year renewals. The Asheville City Council retains final authority to approve the annual BID budget and set annual tax rates to fund the BID. The contracted BID operator will be responsible for regular reporting to the City Council and the public as well as public participation for data-tracking and evaluation of the effectiveness of services.
In his presentation to the City Council, Assistant City Manager Ben Woody commented that the BID’s role and services will be timely and beneficial to the economic recovery of the post-Hellenic city and community at large. “Supporting the success and resilience of downtowns – our region’s center of employment and commerce – is critical to recovery,” Woody noted.
In addition to the scope of services already described, the ADID team will hire a Business Resilience Coordinator to support existing downtown businesses as well as businesses displaced by Hurricane Helen. The coordinator will also work with public and private organizations to leverage small business and emergency recovery resources and coordinate marketing initiatives that support the local economy.
Next step
The following timeline has been shared for implementation of the service presentation To the Council:
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January 31, 2025: Contract executed with service provider
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February/March, 2025: Recruitment and training of BID staff
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March 2025: Initial service launched
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Primary services to include: engaging businesses, staffing and board selection and approval
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On-the-ground service is expected to start from April 1
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March/April, 2025: Service provider reports activities and accomplishments to City Manager’s Office and Downtown Commission
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June 2025: BID service fully operational
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June 2025: Service provider reports activities and achievements to city council
As per the state law, the BID must start serving the city within one year of its formation or by June 30, 2025.
More info
Stay updated on downtown BID and service implementation by visiting Here is the project page.
