About the Birmingham Shopping District
Background
On July 14, 1992, Governor John Engler signed into law Public Act 146, which amended Public Act No 120 of 1961, known as the “Redevelopment of Shopping Areas Act.” This legislation provided much needed assistance in the organization, improvement, and promotion of the Birmingham business community. Today, the Birmingham Shopping District (BSD) continues to fulfill its mission and vision.
Mission
To plan, promote and support a vibrant Downtown Birmingham experience for the community and visitors by engaging and leading a convergence of thriving businesses, property owners and residents.
Vision
Downtown Birmingham will be vibrant day and night with a variety and balance of friendly and world-class businesses in a well-maintained environment with signature events and activities growing the regional draw and local frequency.
Our Role
To grow the economy by broadening the appeal of Downtown Birmingham that attracts and retains businesses and residents. The BSD does this through business recruitment and retention, marketing and promotion of the district, and maintaining and enhancing the downtown environment. The BSD provides many programs and services that assist businesses, property owners and the entire business district.
Special Assessment Funding
The BSD is funded by a special assessment on all commercial, non-residential property in a defined geographic area in and around the central business district. Assessment rates are on a per square foot basis. They vary, depending on which part of the district a property is located, and whether the space is first floor retail space or 2nd floor and above. View the Assessment Map and Assessment Renewal for more information.
BSD Office, Board and Committee Structure
The BSD Special Assessment funds an office with a full time Executive Director, and four part-time staff, all of whom are employed by the City of Birmingham. The office is located inside the Birmingham City Hall Municipal Building at 151 Martin Street.
The BSD Board consists of commercial property owners, business owners, and residents from areas adjoining the BSD, and the City Manager. The Board provides overall direction and leadership to the Executive Director and staff. Learn more about the BSD Board.
BSD Committees
The BSD has four operational committees that meet regularly including the Marketing/Advertising Committee, Special Events Committee, Maintenance and Capital Improvements Committee, and Business Development Committee. Learn more about the Committees.
Main Street Oakland County and Main Street America
The Birmingham Shopping District is one of nearly 30 communities in the Oakland County Main Street program, a coordinating program within the Main Street America network, that works to maximize the economic potential and preserve the heritage and sense of place for historical downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. Learn more at mainstreetoaklandcounty.com.
For more information, call the Birmingham BSD Office at 248-530-1200, or email us at BSDinfo@bhamgov.org. Follow us on Facebook - Birmingham Shopping District and on X and Instagram @BhamShopping.