Committed to Midtown’s Future

Midtown Business

Improvement District (MBID)

Business

Improvement

District

(BID)

A defined geographic area where property owners collectively invest in supplemental services, funded by a self-imposed assessment and governed by those who pay it. BIDs have been proven to be an effective tool in 1,200+ districts across the US to boost cleanliness, safety, & economic vitality.

Why Midtown Needs an MBID

  • Rapid growth demands consistent cleanliness and safety

  • Competitive edge to attract employers, retailers & residents to the midtown area amidst competition

  • Beautification, safety, & placemaking to enhance residents’, business owners' and visitors' experience

  • Dedicated funding stream not dependent on the metro budget

Midtown Nashville is a vibrant destination for living, working, learning, nightlife, and entertainment. It is home to historic Music Row, world-class music venues, restaurants, hotels, and healthcare, and is anchored by renowned institutions such as Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Midtown is rich in architecture, public art, and cultural legacy, and as it experiences rapid growth, it is ready for coordinated investment in its future.

    • The World's First BID → Bloor West Village Business Improvement Area in Toronto was formed in 1970, led by local businesses to revitalize their neighborhood.

    • The first U.S. BID launched in 1974 as the Downtown Development District in New Orleans and continues to operate today, focusing on economic development, ensuring Downtown is clean and safe, serving as the voice and advocate for Downtown’s future, and promoting Downtown as a world-class destination for residents and visitors.

    • With 75 BIDs, New York City boasts the largest BID program in the country.
      In FY2017 alone, these districts invested over $147 million back into their local communities.

    • Across North America, BIDs are known by many names you may have come by:

      • Community Improvement Districts (GA, MO)

      • Special Improvement Districts (OH)

      • Business Improvement Areas (Seattle, Toronto)

      • Business Revitalization Zones (Canada)

    1. Assessment on commercial & residential property (methodology set by State). Renters will not have to pay in.

    2. Funds held locally and overseen by the MBID Board.

    3. Transparent annual work plan & audit.

    4. Services supplement—never replace—Metro programs.

    • Clean & Safe Services: Street cleaning, enhanced safety patrols, and rapid response to maintenance and concerns.

    • Beautification & Placemaking: Strategic landscaping, urban design, pedestrian-friendly improvements, and neighborhood branding.

    • Community & Advocacy: A unified voice for Midtown residents and businesses, collaborative problem-solving, and strategic investment in economic development.

MBID Timeline

Proposed Scheduled:

  • Nov 4: First reading @ Metro Council

  • Dec 16: Public hearing and 3rd reading

Questions?

For more information or questions on the MBID, please contact: 

Want to attend an upcoming info session?

RSVP here.

Council Member Jacob Kupin (District 19)

Jacob.Kupin@Nashville.Gov 

(615) 200-7794

Legislative Assistant to CM Kupin

Team@JacobKupin.com