The Important Role of Business Improvement Districts In Urban Areas with Stephen Russell

The Finest City

In this episode of the Knowledge to Action series, host Jen Whitelaw speaks with Stephen Russell, current President and CEO of San Diego Housing Federation and former Executive Director of the El Cajon Boulevard Business Improvement District. He sheds some light on the important role of Business Improvement Districts, including supporting economic development activities and promoting city growth and community engagement. Steven talks about The Boulevard’s successful growth due to the BID and how community owners can learn more about creating their own Business Improvement District.

Timestamps:

[3:34] What we can learn from Temporary Paradise when we consider the role of commercial areas in our quest to create more housing.

[5:18] Steve provides a snapshot of some of the changes that the El Cajon Boulevard corridor experimented with as a result of the El Cajon Boulevard Business Improvement Association, how it has changed over the years, and the important players that have been involved.

[14:02] Why was the Federal Main Street Program invented, and what unique role did San Diego have in its implementation?

[19:35] What models in other cities can we look to for inspiration?

[20:38] Steve talks about the triangulation of and how city staff, elected officials, and communities can all work together through BIDs to bring about positive change.

[25:13] BIDs promote smart growth and sustainability. In what ways do we see that happening around town?

[29:00] Steve provides some resources for business owners to take advantage of BIDs in their area or to start one themselves.

[30:26] One of the greatest advantages of having a BID is that if you have coordinated economic development programs, your advocacy for basic new and public improvements can sharpen that game.

About C-3

In its 60 years of existence, Citizens Coordinate for Century 3 (C-3) has brought together local thought leaders from planning, design, policy, academia, community development, and more to address our region’s distinctive and pressing land use challenges. In founding C-3 almost 60 years ago, architect Lloyd Ruocco’s vision was to bring together our region’s most creative minds from the arts, sciences, academia, and government to share ideas, learn new perspectives, and build fellowship around the idea of creating livable communities.

Opportunities for Advocacy and Engagement:

C3sandiego.org

City of San Diego

El Cajon Boulevard Business Improvement Association

Stephen Russell

San Diego Housing Federation