Toronto Downtown West BIA

With distinct architecture both old and new, Toronto Downtown West Business Improvement Area (BIA) is a thriving commercial hub of creative houses, hospitality and retail. From the Scotiabank Arena to The Well, from the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts to the Factory Theatre, Downtown West BIA includes many of Toronto’s most iconic cultural landmarks including the CN Tower, EdgeWalk, FlyOver Canada, Steam Whistle Brewing, Toronto Railway Museum, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Canada’s Walk of Fame, Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Metro Hall, Rogers Centre, Roy Thomson Hall, Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, TIFF Bell Lightbox, 401 Richmond, Theatre Museum Canada, Canadian Broadcast Corporation, and Bell Media. The BIA is home to an array of talent that is comprised of the Canadian Opera Company, the National Ballet of Canada, Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors.

Toronto Downtown West has a growing population of over 30,000 residents, 19 million visitors annually and a workforce of 90,000.

What is a BIA?

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an association of commercial properties and businesses within a defined area who work in partnership to create a thriving, successful and safe business area that attracts tourists, local visitors and even new businesses. This collective has the organizational and funding capacity to enhance the quality of life in its local neighbourhood and advocates for community improvement for the benefit of all.

Toronto currently has over 80 BIAs, the largest number of any urban centre in the world.

BIA Funding

Property and business owners within the our boundary contribute to the BIA through a levy. The BIA’s annual budget is used to support projects and activities that enhance the vitality of the area.

Governance

The Board of Directors is made up of elected representatives from member businesses, as well as the local area Councillor. Their role is to oversee the planning, budgeting, implementing and evaluating of BIA projects

The Board also forms special committees that serve as advisory groups for a variety of initiatives.

Current BIA Committees:

  • Steering Committee
  • Planning Advisory Committee
  • John Street Advisory Committee
  • Marketing Advisory Committee

For more information on the BIA Board and committees, contact us.

Who is a BIA Member?

The map shows the Toronto Downtown West BIA’s geographical boundary.

The Toronto Downtown West BIA’s area currently spans from Richmond Street West to Lakeshore Boulevard, and from Spadina Avenue to Simcoe Street and west of York Street. Any business located within the boundary is a BIA member.

Check the map

Benefits of Being a Member

In support of the businesses of this area, the BIA’ s mandate is to promote, improve and preserve this dynamic area of Toronto. Benefitting from economic, environmental and social factors driving downtown growth, Toronto Downtown West has established itself as a thriving and vibrant district for living, creating, working and entertainment.

By being part of the BIA, businesses have access to a variety of benefits and opportunities unique to our area.

Collaborate

The BIA engages with businesses, developers, residents, government and other partners, and informs members about relevant activities and opportunities:

Member Communications:

  • COVID-19 Updates
  • Road and Infrastructure Notifications
  • Filming Notifications
  • Relevant Government Meetings
  • Member Opportunities
  • Conferences and Conventions Notifications
  • Member Surveys
  • Community Based Public Safety Meetings (De-escalation Workshop | Risk Mitigation for Licensed Operators)

Collaboration With Local Businesses, Residents, Police, City of Toronto

Night-time Economy Working Group: Nightlife and Live Music

Advocate

The BIA advocates on matters impacting member businesses and area:

  • King Street Transit and Public Realm Plan
  • John Street Corridor Improvements
  • Transportation/Transit/Accessibility/Mobility Plans
  • Commercial Tax Reform
  • Street Involved Activity, Homelessness, Mental Health
  • Safety and Security
  • Affordable Housing
  • Small Businesses Advocacy
  • Tax Category
  • Liquor Wholesale Pricing
  • Insurance Rates
  • Extension of COVID-19 relief programs

Promote

The BIA promotes the cultural richness of this dynamic neighbourhood through the following:

  • Business Directory
  • Social channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn
  • Blogs
  • Promotional Programs
  • Promotional Videos
  • Member Newsletters
  • Partnerships
  • ArtWalk
  • CaféTO

Enhance

The BIA enhances the safety, security, cleanliness and beauty of the area: 

  • Clean Streets Program (Illegal Dumping, litter/garbage removal, graffiti removal, poster removal, power washing, snow removal, asset cleaning)
  • BIA Ambassador Program
  • Anti-graffiti pole wraps and paint
  • Deficiency Reporting
  • Asset Management
  • BIA custom poles, branded icons
  • Tree grates
  • Flower program, BIA planters, baskets
  • Union Station/Front Street planters, University Ave. Triangle
  • Street and PATH Wayfinding
  • Canada’s Walk of Fame Plan
  • King Street Transit and Public Realm Plan
  • John Street Corridor Improvements

Contact Information

Toronto Downtown West BIA Office

416-561-0889
info@yourexperienceawaits.ca