The Wynwood Arts District is currently in the midst of establishing a Business Improvement District. As part of this process, we will be entering an exciting new period in our urban development evolution. As a Business Improvement District, Wynwood will be able to develop its urban infrastructure and explore services that will ensure a safer and more pedestrian-friendly experience.

ArtPlace spoke with the Wynwood BID Project Director, David Collins, about the most rewarding experience since the ArtPlace Grant, and what lessons he has learned in the process.

ARTPLACE: What has been your best event or the most rewarding experience you have had during the course of your ArtPlace grant? What lesson did you learn from this success?

DAVID: Our most relevant experience is not in the past, but it resides in the immediate future in the form of the BID election, which will culminate on June 4 at 5pm. In an intermediate sense, the election process itself is emotionally satisfying because it challenges us on a daily basis.

Making the case for the BID, clarifying information and answers for property owners, and responding to raised concerns are elements which require us to be honest and straightforward. In other words, it is the election process itself which continuously teaches us about the values and priorities of property owners who lead the Wynwood community.

The lesson here is to listen to others and value their opinions. Including these opinions in the plans for the establishment of a Business Improvement District will make our effort both, successful and effective. The ultimate priorities of the organization will not be based on the opinions of a handful of stakeholders, but rather upon the values and judgement of the entire commercial community.