THE GID
Why create a GID for Ballpark? Individually, we have finite resources to invest beyond the cost of simply owning, leasing and managing our properties. Alone, we have little time to advocate for our community to the city, and beyond. Together, however? Our singular dollar turns into thousands. Our lone voice turns into a chorus pushing for the same things. We have strength together in innumerable ways, and with this we believe we can:
- Create a collective voice to accomplish the long-term goals of the Ballpark District, including advocacy on local policy initiatives, involvement in future planning and development issues, coordination with partners in and around the Ballpark District and staff that works for the community.
- Support community members by coordinating resources with all stakeholders to ensure the Ballpark District is safe and secure, and working with the City of Denver and social service agencies to find innovative solutions to serve those experiencing homeless. The Ballpark District should be a safe and welcoming place for all.
- Strengthen the local economy by supporting the business community and attracting new investment while coordinating services such as maintenance and security to lessen the cost of doing business here while creating more opportunities for local businesses to thrive.
- Provide comprehensive maintenance, tackling consistent upkeep of sidewalks and public spaces and a continued investment in ensuring the public realm has appropriate and cared-for amenities.
- Define and establish a compelling sense of place, an environment that invites exploration, engagement, lingering and playing. Together the Ballpark District community can create safer streets and more accessible spaces, bring light to the environment and prioritize greening it. Together we can enliven the community with investments for all.
General Improvement Districts (GIDs) are autonomous special assessment districts created by stakeholders in an area to fund safety, security, maintenance and infrastructure improvements through a collective budget and operating plan. GIDs helps stakeholders realize their vision for their district and put property owners, businesses and residents in charge of their own destiny.
GIDs are not imposed on us – they are created by us, and for us. WE as Ballpark stakeholders determine the boundaries, the amount we want to raise and how to assess those fees, and what services we want to deliver and how. WE govern the district and manage its day-to-day operations. WE can hire staff, contract for services and create formal partnerships for service with the City of Denver, other districts, and other community partners.
GIDs (and similar tools like Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are highly-proven and highly-successful tools not only utilized in Denver and Colorado but all over the country and all around the globe. Locally, both the Downtown Denver Partnership and the RiNo Art District oversee GIDs that have invested millions and leveraged even more to support infrastructure, maintenance, safety and beautification.
More information on GIDs and other special districts in the City and County of Denver can be found here.