Downtown Nashville Partnership advocates for Central Business Improvement District expansion

Support for Downtown Nashville's Business Improvement District Expansion Dominates Council Meeting

At the Metropolitan Council Committee meeting on June 2, 2025, the proposed expansion of the Central Business Improvement District (CBID) took center stage, with multiple speakers voicing strong support for the initiative. The expansion aims to enhance the cleanliness, safety, and overall appeal of downtown Nashville, a sentiment echoed by local business owners and residents alike.

David Andrews, a downtown resident and owner of D'Andrew's Bakery Cafe, highlighted the positive impact of the CBID, stating, "The proposed expansion will provide much-needed services to ensure that our downtown remains clean, safe, active, and attractive for residents, businesses, and visitors alike." He emphasized the financial benefits his business has experienced due to the district's efforts, noting that tourists frequently remark on Nashville's cleanliness.

David Ewing, another downtown business owner, reinforced this message, recalling how the downtown area has transformed over the years. "Our streets are spotless," he said, attributing this to the partnership between public and private sectors that funds the CBID. Ewing also pointed out that the presence of compassionate ambassadors in the area has improved interactions with the unhoused community, further enhancing the safety of downtown.

Ryan Keane, a resident of The Gulch, praised the CBID for bridging the gap between city services and the additional support provided by the partnership, which includes landscaping and extra garbage pickup. Elizabeth Mayhall, a long-time downtown resident, expressed gratitude for the responsive services of the CBID, stating, "The partnership does an outstanding job maintaining a clean and safe environment."

The meeting also included discussions on various resolutions and consent agenda items, but the overwhelming consensus among speakers was the importance of the CBID expansion for the future of downtown Nashville. As the city continues to grow, the expansion is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that Nashville remains an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.

The committee's support for the CBID expansion reflects a commitment to maintaining the vibrancy and safety of Nashville's downtown, with anticipated outcomes that promise to benefit the community as a whole.