Business improvement districts are contentious quasi-governmental tools that some have speculated can improve economic growth and/or been the vehicle of gentrification and displacement at the neighborhood scale. There has been little to no evidence discerning the tangible effects on communities. The City and County of Denver has a long history of competing BIDs, yet generally has contributed to the argument that BIDs have done more harm than good, despite being aware of the issues concerning affordable housing. By studying the Affordable Housing Zoning Incentive initiative, the structure and history of BIDs, and the collaboration of the two entities in Denver in 2020, this analysis offers insights on BID influence on our communities.
With the proper policies, incentives, and municipal guidance, a mixed-method approach could focus the power of BIDs out of the hands of private interests and into the hands of a well-represented community.
