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Birmingham’s lively, pedestrian-friendly downtown offers one of the midwest’s premiere shopping districts.
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About the
Birmingham
Shopping District
BACKGROUND
On July 14, 1992, Governor John Engler signed into law Public Act 146, which amended Public Act No 120 of 1961, known as the “Redevelopment of Shopping Areas Act.” This legislation provided much needed assistance in the organization, improvement, and promotion of the Birmingham business community. Today, the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) continues to fulfill its mission and vision.
MISSION
To plan, promote and support a vibrant Downtown Birmingham experience for the community and visitors by engaging and leading a convergence of thriving businesses, property owners and residents.
VISION
Downtown Birmingham will be vibrant day and night with a variety and balance of friendly and world-class businesses in a well-maintained environment with signature events and activities growing the regional draw and local frequency.
OUR ROLE
To grow the economy by broadening the appeal of Downtown Birmingham that attracts and retains businesses and residents. The BSD does this through business recruitment and retention, marketing and promotion of the district, and maintaining and enhancing the downtown environment. The BSD provides many programs and services that assist businesses, property owners and the entire business district.
FUNDING
The BSD is funded by a special assessment on all commercial, non-residential property in a defined geographic area in and around the central business district. Assessment rates are on a per square foot basis. They vary, depending on which part of the district a property is located, and whether the space is first floor retail space or 2nd floor and above. Read more about the assessment and strategic plan here.
BSD OFFICE, BOARD AND COMMITTEE STRUCTURE
The BSD Special Assessment funds an office with a full time Executive Director, and three part time staff. The staff members are employees of the City of Birmingham. The office is located inside the Birmingham Municipal Building at 151 Martin Street. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. A counter features literature and information about Birmingham including Visitors Guide, Birmingham Magazine, event listings and other publications.
The BSD Board consists of commercial property owners, business owners, and residents from areas adjoining the BSD. The City Manager also sits on the BSD Board. The Board provides overall direction and leadership to the Executive Director and staff. The Board meets monthly, usually the first Thursday of the month, 8 a.m. at the Community House. Board members are appointed by the City Commission for two year terms. View BSD Board Agendas and Minutes here.
BSD COMMITTEES
The BSD has four operational committees that meet regularly: Marketing/Advertising Committee, Special Events Committee, Maintenance and Capital Improvements Committee, and the Business Development Committee. Learn more about the Committees here.
For more information, call the Birmingham BSD Office at 248-530-1200, or email us at B[email protected]. Follow us on Facebook - Birmingham Shopping District and on Twitter and Instagram @BhamShopping.
BY-LAWS, BSD BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The By Laws of the Birmingham Shopping District Board of Directors was adopted April 19, 2023.
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