Shop The BID in Bed-Stuy

Dear Neighbors,

I’m a native son of Bed-Stuy. 

From bike riding as a child along the tree-lined blocks of MacDonough Street, to now, as a proud homeowner on Decatur Street, I’ve always taken pride in the neighborhood’s majestic brownstones, the friendly faces, the comfort of a familiar community. 

Taking on the job of executive director of the Bed Stuy Gateway Business Improvement District (BID) has been the realization of a dream – not in the romantic sense of, “If only I could do…,” but in the practical sense of, “This has be to done, so why not me?”  Countless others have done so before me, so I’m merely continuing in the tradition of doing for and in my neighborhood for which I have so much pride. 

Since taking up the reins as executive director last June, I’ve been listening to entrepreneurs, property owners, residents, and shoppers, documenting just how far businesses in the BID have come and how much further all of us can help the district grow. 

Along with new sidewalks, by the end of this summer there will be distinctive pavers throughout the district; new trees, benches, bike racks, and trash receptacles will make the district more pedestrian friendly; and a new outdoor plaza at Marcy Avenue and Fulton Street will be a gathering place to host public events.

I’ve listened especially closely to those of you who said Fulton Street should be cleaner – my first month was spent revamping management of the Atlantic Maintenance street cleaning crew.  Look for their new forest green and khaki outfits with the BID logo on the back of their jackets as they keep Fulton Street looking fabulous for you. I encourage all of us to lend a helping hand by discouraging one another from littering. And thanks to all of you who’ve written to say that you have indeed noticed that Fulton Street is cleaner. 

Some have also mentioned security concerns. In the coming months, the BID will institute the BID Watch program. Cameras will be installed throughout the district assisting safety coordination efforts with the 79th Precinct. BID Watch will also help monitor sanitation violations and infringements of other quality of life issues.

Finally, check out our Social Video business series here. There you will find wonderful product and service offerings by businesses in the BID and beyond.  We’re tooting the horns of area businesses and telling you why you should “Shop the BID in Bed-Stuy.” 

Be sure to sign up on our email list to receive news of special events, discount offerings, and new business openings in the coming months.  Follow us on Twitter and friend us on Facebook.  We’re excited and confident and proud in the future of the Gateway BID and we look forward to you shopping with us!

All my best,

Doug E. Jones