On Monday, June 8, the Seattle City Council unanimously passed a twelve-year renewal of the U District Business Improvement Area. The renewal was the result of a true collaboration between those who care about the area’s future and is a strong win for all who live, work and play in the University District.
Established in 2015, U District BIA assessments help pay for: cleaning and public safety; events and marketing; economic development; planning; and program management. This important work is guided by the U District BIA Ratepayer Advisory Board and The U District Partnership is contracted to manage program implementation.
Throughout the renewal process, businesses, neighbors and non-profits have shared how the programs funded by the U District BIA are making a positive difference in their lives and for the community as a whole. One effective program is REACH, a neighborhood-based outreach program that connects unhoused neighbors to services they need while lessening stress for businesses and responders who are trying to help. REACH’s skilled coordinators are trained to address the specific concerns identified by the community they serve. Clean and Safe is another impactful service established to provide cleaning services and beautification for areas throughout the U District BIA.
These programs are working and community stakeholders made it clear that the University District benefits because of them. Even while facing the challenges brought on by COVID-19, passionate small-business owners took the time to testify before the City Council and share their support for the U District BIA. The process of renewing the BIA was a true partnership between the people and institutions that care deeply about the present and future of the University District. As the area continues to develop, the work of the U District BIA will only become more essential. With its renewal, U District BIA members can continue to work together to fund programs in the U District making it a cleaner, safer and more vibrant neighborhood for all.