LOOKING AHEAD TO 2008

The plans and goals for this coming fiscal year are to expand the awareness
of the improvements in the 86th Business Improvement District. The BID wishes to assure that the members are satisfied with the efforts and that the services continue as well if not better in the future.

The budget includes items for capital expenditures and the Board is considering funding certain projects at this time. Another item to review, are the results from the new mid-block crossing and the lighting arrangements that are being monitored at this time. There is a possibility of purchasing some more trash receptacles and pedestrian lighting fixtures. A consideration from last year is a model program where consideration to build a subsidy fund for stores where they are encouraged to install or modify their security gates to be the “wire-mesh gates” vs. “solid gates”.

The 5th Ave re-construction is completed. The BID Staff is monitoring any activity and funding programs that may help the BID in the event that extensive construction is required.

The BID encourages the use of mass transit locally to include the R Train. Additionally the BID is encouraging the use of the Express Bus systems to bring visitors from Manhattan to the BID here at the Gateway to NYC.

The BID Staff regularly reviews possibilities for other federally sponsored Transportation Enhancements Programs that may assist in the increased use of mass transit and possibility of a local shuttle.

The BID once again for next year, will expand the hours of sanitation clean up and work on specific removal of gum and pressure wash the sidewalks. Plans include additional marketing programs and new signage for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Long-term possibilities include development of a “trolley loop service” for shoppers and employees to facilitate off site parking.