Communications
DowntownDC BID strategic communications plans support the full spectrum of BID initiatives to promote economic development in Downtown DC. This includes creating a strong graphic identity and consistent communications messaging for the BID, planning public outreach activities, coordinating and managing special events, disseminating a wide range of publications and information products, maintaining cooperative relationships with partner organizations and providing communications support to other departments within the BID.
The BID uses an integrated program of communications and public relations, events, and assistance with cross-promotion between businesses to communicate the message of Downtown's renaissance. Comprehensive research helps us keep track of shifts in consumer perception. Economic development programs designed to attract office tenant and retail store operators are coordinated with area developers and commercial leasing agents.
A monthly electronic newsletter, the Downtown Update, keeps more than 8,000 stakeholders and interested others apprised of news, trends and developments taking place in Downtown. From features on new development projects, retail stores and restaurants, to sustainability efforts, transit, traffic and parking, we track the pulse of the neighborhood so that businesses, workers, residents and visitors can stay in the know.
Since 2007, the BID has been producing the Leadership Paper series, occasional working papers intended to foster a dialog about critical issues relating to Downtown Washington's economic, social and physical development.
Momentum Awards
The annual Momentum Awards program celebrates the best of Downtown by paying tribute to the people, projects and organizations that help make it a remarkable urban experience. MORE
Branding
In 2007, the Downtown BID launched a brand repositioning platform that provides a new vocabulary for conveying Downtown’s unique character and identity. A comprehensive program set high standards for marketing and promoting the area and its assets as vibrant, inviting and smart. While the organizational focus remains on basic “clean, safe and friendly” services – the hallmark of business improvement districts across the country – as characterized by the Downtown SAM corps, the new brand serves to guide us in delivering programs, services, insights and tools to maximize Downtown’s economic, social and cultural competitiveness.
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Pedestrian Perception Study
The BID conducts a Pedestrian Perception Study bi-annually to measure attitudes about the area’s vibrancy, safety and attractiveness. The study shows that nearly all the attitudes that pedestrians hold about Downtown DC are positive. An impressive 71% said it is safe, has a variety of things to do, has great people watching and is clean and attractive . In keeping with the new branding vision, there also is strong agreement that Downtown is “vibrant” (77%) and smart as demonstrated by “a leading urban environment” (67%). MORE
Banner Program
After a long and successful pilot run, the DowntownDC BID has passed the reins of the banner program to the District Department of Transportation (DDOT). For more information about banners and seasonal displays, visit DDOT's Public Space Management permit page or call (DDOT). 202-442-4670.
Selected Web Resources
Answers, Please! Provides DC residents with a fast and easy way to search for local and national social service programs. Features user-friendly searches by the name, location, address, operating hours, telephone numbers, and/or eligibility criteria.
-- www.answersplease.dc.gov
Council Member Jack Evans (Ward 2) Find information on Jack Evans and the neighborhoods in Ward 2, neighborhood links, the Councilman's weekly newsletter and legislative actions. -- www.dccouncil.washington.dc.us/EVANS/website/
Council Member Tommy Wells (Ward 6) Find information on Tommy Wells and learn about legislation and activities, and see what you can do to help make DC and Ward 6 a more livable community for all! -- www.tommywells.org/
DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities Find information on the arts -- a complete calendar of events, information on learning and outreach programs, grant applications, other opportunities in the arts and public art programs. -- dcarts.dc.gov/dcarts/
Downtown Neighborhood Association To develop and create a vibrant downtown residential character and balance between the residents, business owners, galleries, entertainment community and tourists. -- dcdna.org/
Helen Hayes Awards An association dedicated to recognize achievement and promote excellence in theatrical production and performance in the Washington metropolitan area; to stimulate further development of the professional theatre community and thereby the community as a whole; and to encourage the growth and stability of theatrical audiences and support for professional theatres. -- www.helenhayes.org/
International Downtown Association IDA is a guiding force in creating healthy and dynamic centers that anchor the well being of towns, cities and regions throughout the world. -- www.ida-downtown.org/
Washington Convention and Tourism Corporation Find information on tourism information, area maps, community links and area weather reports. -- washington.org/
