The Downtown Poughkeepsie BID is made up of local business owners, residents, and community partners who care deeply about the future of our city. We’re here to support small businesses, make downtown more inviting, and create a place where people truly enjoy living, working, shopping and spending time together. Our mission is to help local businesses thrive, to spark new opportunities and to inspire experiences that make us proud to call Poughkeepsie home. Looking ahead, our ultimate vision is to see Downtown become a vibrant, welcoming center where people come together and businesses grow.

To achieve these goals, the BID has adopted five core service areas:

• Beautification of sidewalks, streetscapes, and public spaces (ex. banners/planters/clean-up)

• Safety and Security initiatives in partnership with community stakeholders (ex. lighting/cameras)

• Business Climate support, including filling vacant storefronts and assisting small businesses (outreach/facades)

• Downtown Identity through events, branding, and public art 

• Supplementing City Services by enhancing municipal efforts and securing grants

It is important to note that while we share many common goals with the City of Poughkeepsie, the BID is legally a separate nonprofit entity. We are not a governing body and do not have authority over City operations or policies. Our scope is limited to the programs and initiatives outlined above, and matters outside these areas remain under the City’s jurisdiction.

We greatly value your interest/input and desire to be an active partner as we build the future of our community. As a Board, we look forward to working with residents, businesses and community partners to strengthen our downtown district. Together, we can make Downtown Poughkeepsie a thriving destination for all!