What is a BIA and what does the Bolton BIA do?

Just what is a BIA?

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an association of business people within a specified district who join together, with official approval of  Council, in a self-help program aimed at stimulating local business.

They use their own money in an ongoing effort to draw more prospective customers to their area by improving the attractiveness of the area and promoting it as a good place to shop, visit and do business.

Once a BIA is approved by Council, every business within its boundaries automatically becomes a member. There are no exceptions, under the principle that all who benefit should be required to bear their fair share of the cost of the program.

Does Bolton have a BIA?

Yes. Formed in the eighties the Bolton BIA is geographically bounded by the Humber River on the north side, Elizabeth/Willow Street to the south, Temperance/Jane Streets to the west and Mill/David Streets to the east. All property owners in this geographic area pay a special tax levy as a BIA member.

What does the Bolton BIA do?

When many residents think about the BIA their thoughts immediately turn to the banners and wreathes and hanging pots, urns and boxes of flowers that beautify our downtown core area. But did you know that the BIA is also the organizer and funder of our annual Midnight Madness event?

Last year the BIA added 16 lovely benches to the core so visitors and shoppers could pause and relax. The year before they purchased and installed the wonderful clock you see at Stern and Queen. And this year the BIA is adding a new event, our first annual Bolton Blues and JazzFest on Saturday June 22nd.

As a member of our Bolton BIA Board I’m privileged to see the creativity, energy, and dedication of a business group focused on bettering their community while bettering their business. I hope you’ll frequent their establishments and enjoy their upcoming calendar of events.