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 continues to fulfill its mission:

We strive to provide leadership in the marketing, advertising, and promotion of the Birmingham Shopping District. We actively work to promote a district that is active, attractive, clean, safe and pedestrian-oriented, and ensure that the entire district continues to serve as a center for business, service, social, cultural and community activities.

Benefits Provided by the Birmingham Shopping District

The BSD provides many programs and services that assist businesses, property owners and the entire business district. Learn more by downloading our BSD benefits letter.

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.

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 on the BSD Committees web page.

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.