The Honolulu City Council has approved the establishment of a Downtown Honolulu Business Improvement District (BID), marking a significant step toward revitalizing the area. Honolulu Biz Journal's recent report highlights the struggles of downtown Honolulu in the post-COVID-19 era, echoing the experiences of numerous business districts across the United States. Bill 51, which supports the BID, aims to address these challenges head-on.
The BID, which will encompass over 2,000 parcels, seeks to improve the district's public safety, cleanliness, and community engagement. Hawaii Public Radio's analysis points out the shift in the downtown landscape, including the closure of major retail chains and the impact of changing work environments. This new initiative is a response to those changes and a push to rebrand the downtown area to better serve those who live and work there.
Key to the BID's success will be the supplementary services provided, which were a key takeaway from downtown Honolulu business meetings, according to KITV's coverage. The district’s creation also comes as downtown stakeholders express support and excitement for the change, hoping it will address issues such as crime and vacant properties, as noted in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser's report. Despite the optimism, some business owners express concern that the new tax will not solve the underlining issues such as the lack of customers. Civil Beat's article states that some business owners believe that the proposal will not attract customers, specifically office workers, back to the area.
The establishment of the Downtown Honolulu BID presents both opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs, investors, and other business professionals in Hawaii. It has the potential to inject new life into the downtown area, leading to increased foot traffic, renewed investment, and a strengthened sense of community. However, the success of the BID will hinge on its ability to effectively address the underlying issues of safety, cleanliness, and economic activity, while also adapting to the evolving needs of the businesses and residents in downtown Honolulu.
