The Rome City Commission has approved an updated ordinance renewing and slightly expanding the city’s Business Improvement District (BID), which helps fund downtown programs and enhancements.
Originally established in 2006 and last amended in 2015, the BID allows downtown property and business owners to collectively invest in projects that promote economic growth, beautification, and community events.
According to D.J. Rickman, owner of Giggity’s and a member of the Rome Downtown Development Authority, support for the renewal was strong. “State law only requires 51 percent of the property value owners in favor, but this time, 79 percent supported it,” Rickman said. “That’s higher than when the BID first started or when it was renewed in 2015. The programs funded through BID—like First Friday events, block parties, and façade and marketing grants—provide incredible value to downtown businesses.”
The BID is funded through an annual property millage rate and a surcharge on business licenses, which go toward improvements beyond standard city services. The newly approved renewal covers 2026 through 2035 and keeps rates unchanged at 1.5 mills, with no increase in the business license surcharge.
The only modification to the district’s boundaries will be the addition of three parcels along East First Avenue, expanding the area slightly.
City officials and business leaders say the renewed BID will continue to drive momentum for Downtown Rome, supporting both economic vitality and community engagement for the next decade.
