In New York City, Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) are a catalyst for driving growth for residents and businesses. Each BID has unique needs and goals that require comprehensive strategies to support the ongoing momentum to transform neighborhoods with an adaptable model that leaves no one behind.
Venture Smarter is working to support inclusive growth initiatives for BIDs by improving upon an identified approach, known as the 3T’s (Technology, Transportation, and Tourism), to support transforming a Business District. This flexible framework takes a comprehensive approach to change a business district that includes the often left out low-skill/income residents.
By using technology as a tool, BIDs can include a workforce development model to support residents' current skills and competencies gaps. This model provides a pathway to achieve the desired end goal of a local workforce capable of supporting new businesses that more often than not require a combination of digital, soft, and STEM skills.
The Jamaica BID is a great example of how the 3 T’s can bring economic growth to a neighborhood. The Jamaica Business Improvement District (BID) is home to hundreds of independent businesses, restaurants, stores, three performing arts centers, dozens of landmarked historical gems, a park, and two colleges.
Jamaica’s proximity to New York City’s two major airports — JFK and LaGuardia — makes it a major transportation hub. The Jamaica transportation hub is currently undergoing construction that will see new airport terminals, hotels, and restaurants positioning Jamaica, Queens for business growth that could improve the lives of all the residents and businesses.
Challenge: The Jamaica BID is in need of high-speed internet for Businesses and Wi-Fi access for residents/visitors to the area. Plans are underway to provide businesses with high-speed broadband internet access. However, from the “Smart Cities” perspective a Wi-fi solution is required to complete the connectivity Smart Cities value chain.
Solution: A Public-Private Partnership to deliver wi-fi Internet access would complete the connectivity value chain. In addition, having a digital platform that allows interaction between residents and visitors with local businesses starts the first step into truly being a connected BID or Digital District.
As such, the 3T’s would apply to the Jamaica BID as follows:
Technology - increased connectivity and communication channels for people and businesses (defeating the digital divide, supporting digital literacy and workforce development efforts for all ages, providing direct access to local businesses, shops, and visitor attractions).
For example, a wayfinding solution using social login (FB, Twitter, Instagram) could help a visitor by providing a directory of businesses and tourist attractions while providing opportunities for local businesses to engage through relevant and targeted advertising.
Transportation - increase accessibility and awareness for residents and visitors to many mobility options in Jamaica, Queens.
For example, a Smart Parking solution would provide information and access to varioussupports parking options to reduce congestion and reduce carbon footprint spent idling.
Tourism - Providing digital access to information brings opportunities for new dollars and new faces in Jamaica, Queens that will catalyze economic development for local businesses, economic mobility for all residents, and highlight the neighborhood’s rich history and culture to residents and visitors.
For example, an upgrade to the existing Jamaica BID portal would provide tourists to the NYC area access to accurate listings of the hundreds of independent businesses, restaurants, and stores. A possible next step could then be providing an avenue for interactive engagement.
While the 3T strategy has room for improvement, it’s on the right path of putting the people element at the foundation of any initiatives to create a more inclusive Smart City solution.
Feel free to provide feedback, as I am always on the hunt for new opinions and ideas!
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