Downtown improvement districts : a potential revitalization tool

Downtown improvement districts as one element in downtown revitalization is the subject of this thesis. A downtown improvement district is a mechanism that can provide planning, financing, management, and implementation services and/or improvements to a specified area. It is a joint effort between the public and private sectors. The improvement district is a defined geographical area that provides services to the properties and businesses in this area. These services are financed through a special assessment levied against the district properties. This thesis describes the evolution and definition of downtown improvement districts. Interviews and correspondence with downtown entities which manage the improvement district provide a basis for discussion of the different components of the downtown improvement district. An on site case study of the Denver 16th Street Mall Management District, as well as specific examples from other downtowns, bring this topic into context. Finally, conclusions are drawn regarding criteria which are necessary for creating a successful downtown improvement district. A set of guidelines is offered for communities interested in establishing a downtown improvement district. This study should be useful in assisting downtown entities in determining whether this type of mechanism can aid their unique revitalization efforts.