Milwaukee invited to showcase efforts of Downtown BID at national conference

The Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District was recently showcased as one of 26 cities at the National League of Cities’ annual Congress of Cities & Expositions in Denver, Colo.
 The 2010 City Showcase provides cities from across the country an opportunity to present new and noteworthy ideas to more than 2,500 conference participants.
More than 30 organizations were hand selected by content experts and local leaders to showcase innovations in community development, sustainability, youth engagement and public works. Milwaukee had an opportunity to provide in-depth information on the planning and implementation of projects coordinated by Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21.
“Milwaukee Downtown has helped to fuel much of the progress in our  central business district,” said Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett.   “The business improvement district model has kept the hub of our 
city vibrant, clean and friendly.  It’s an honor to be recognized  alongside so many esteemed cities.”
In addition to sponsoring events like Downtown Dinning Week, Downtown Employee Appreciation Week, Downtown Open House and Housing Expo and Milwaukee’s Holiday Lights Festival, the Downtown BID has also developed programs like the Public Service Ambassadors, the Clean Sweep Ambassadors, a Graffiti Removal Team and a Landscape Crew.
The Milwaukee Downtown BID represents more than 120 blocks and more than 400 property owners in downtown Milwaukee. Property owners pay an additional tax which is used to enhance the downtown environment and establish programs like the ones mentioned.