What is a BID?
A BID, or a Business Improvement District, is essentially an assessment on property within a defined geographic boundary. Revenues are directed back to the defined area to finance enhanced services, which may include security, maintenance, marketing, economic development, and special events. BIDs create vibrant, clean, and safe districts. They deliver services and improvements above and beyond those provided by the City. Working with the City and community, BIDs are a powerful voice for their districts.
What does the Colfax Ave BID do?
The Colfax Ave BID is dedicated to cultivating a clean, safe and friendly environment on Colfax. We provide enhanced services to the business corridor such as trash removal, street cleaning, safety initiatives, streetscape improvements, marketing and promotional services as well as liaising with surrounding community groups. The BID also works closely with Denver Police, the Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, Community Planning & Development, and other organizations to represent the needs of area business and property owners. Read more here.
What are the BID’s boundaries?The Colfax Ave BID’s boundaries are from the alley west of Grant to the alley east of Josephine, and between 14th and 16th Avenues.
I’m a business or property owner. How does the BID benefit me?
In addition to providing the above services, BIDs have been proven to help increase property values. Studies have also shown that BIDs significantly reduce crime and increase occupancy rates, public perception, lease rates, retail sales and pedestrian counts. For example, similar to improvements one would make to their home like a new kitchen, more efficient appliances, or a sprinkler system, the addition of tree canopies and creating/improving public space increases commercial property values up to 20%. Encouraging compact form development increases the density of patrons and can therefore increase property values up to 25%. Improving the “walkability” of a commercial street makes it easier for the 25,000 residents within a 10-minute walk of Colfax to access the businesses, linger longer, and spend more. Studies show improved walkability increases land values up to 300%.
What does the BID do to improve safety on Colfax?
Safety is something the BID and our businesses take very seriously. From adding pedestrian lights throughout the district to increasing bike patrols along the corridor, safety requires a multifaceted approach. In 2019, the BID launched a grant program that allows businesses to make important safety upgrades to their properties via Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles. The BID also helps businesses obtain No Trespassing agreements with District 6 Police and provides No Trespassing signage for businesses.
How does the BID address homeless/transient issues on Colfax?
There’s no silver bullet for ending homelessness. One way the BID strives to be part of the solution is through our innovative Colfax Works program. The program provides employment opportunities, supportive services, and transitional housing to help provide a path to independence and stability for those experiencing or emerging from homelessness. Crews assist with trash/graffiti removal, power washing, and small landscaping projects within the BID’s boundaries. Team members receive important supportive services along with housing for up to one year.
What’s the Colfax Ave Streetscape Plan?
The Colfax Ave BID’s Streetscape Plan outlines a strategy for Colfax improvements that includes maintaining the character of our historic main street. Overall, the plan seeks to: 1) Improve Safety – from a pedestrian and traffic standpoint, as well as crime; 2) Improve Appearance – by implementing streetscape beautification enhancements and placemaking features; 3) Improve Development – by acting as a “blueprint” for developers, property owners and all other future infrastructure investments. View the Streetscape Plan in its entirety here.
Do you have merch?
Yes we do! Check out our online store here.
How can I get more involved with the BID?
There are a few ways to get involved with us. First, make sure you sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. If you’re looking for more, consider serving on our Safety, Streetscape, or Maintenance committees, which generally meet monthly. We also have occasional volunteer opportunities for our events and public art projects. Finally, our board consists of business and property owners within the district. They serve on a volunteer basis and help guide the organization. If you’re interested in any of these opportunities and want more information, email us at info@colfaxave.com.