An Insider’s Look of Uptown Butte’s Massive Improvement Project

BUTTE, MT - Do you think Uptown Butte is in need of some improvements?

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No matter where you lie on the issue, there's no doubt from the majority of Butte's citizens that Uptown Butte is due for an improvement project. Though the largest historic districts in America boasts what seems like hundreds of impressively older buildings and businesses, the Uptown area has seen—especially in more recent years—trends of crime, bankruptcies, and neglect. Of course, these consequential elements are natural to a larger and historic city, but that doesn't mean we can't do anything about it.

Should You "Opt In"?

That's where the Uptown Butte Business Improvement District (BID) steps in. You may have seen some posts and images from the BID recently showcasing local businesses or property owners who have "Opted In" to...well, what, exactly?

If you've seen an Uptown Butte business that has "opted in," it means a couple of different things, including setting up the business with:

• Enhanced security
• Sustained maintenance
• Streetscaping
• Ambassador program
• Proactive business development
• Marketing support
• Advocacy for property owners and businesses

These initiatives aim to create a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant business environment, promoting Uptown Butte as a desirable destination for consumers, entrepreneurs, and investors. This is equally beneficial to property owners who "opt in," as they will be set up with:

• Increased property values
• Attraction of new tenants and customers
• Community and economic development
• Collaboration and influence over district projects and services
• Beautification efforts
• Maintenance and cleaning services
• Security patrols
• Marketing campaigns

Uptown Butte BID Funding

But how is the BID funded? The project receives its cash through assessments on both municipal and private sector properties within the district. These assessments are included in the Butte Silver Bow tax bills, due biannually in November and May. Municipal properties, including city, county, and parking properties, also contribute to the BID, supporting its initiatives to improve the area’s economic development, safety, cleanliness, marketing, and infrastructure.

Put simply: the Uptown Butte BID is funded through fees assessed on both municipal and private properties within the district, included in local tax bills.

What This Means for the Average Butte Rat

For someone living in Uptown Butte, the BID means a cleaner, safer, and more attractive neighborhood with enhanced security, regular maintenance, beautification projects, and marketing efforts to promote the area. With this, property values are expected to increase, which is great news for property owners, business owners, and citizens alike. Plus, it'll all be super pretty to look at!