The Canandaigua BID is a non-profit organization created to promote, beautify and improve downtown Canandaigua for its residents, merchants and property owners. The events and services that the BID provides for Downtown Canandaigua have a big impact on the entire community by helping to attract new residents, new businesses and tourists to the area.
Created more than 16 years ago, the Canandaigua BID is funded through a property tax assessment, contracted services agreement and fundraising events. The physical boundaries of the district include South Main Street from the railroad tracks at the north end to Antis Street at the south end and one-block east and west. There are more than 100 businesses and 700 employees within its boundaries. Boasting an eclectic mix of businesses from specialty shops to clothing to ethnic restaurants to service providers, this district is the right place for your business.
The Canandaigua BID supports a thriving downtown district with a focus on the following key areas.
One of the most visible programs of the Canandaigua BID, is its participation in two Main Street grant programs resulting in over $1.5 million dollars of public and private investment in Downtown building façade and interior improvements. In addition to the Main Street grant program, a revolving loan fund has been established through the City of Canandaigua’s economic development program to assist business owners with gap financing.
Downtown Canandaigua is home to the Commons Park a development that occurred in 2002 creating a central gathering place for residents and visitors in the heart of Downtown. The park includes beautiful landscaping, public fountains and a covered stage where many concerts and programs take place throughout the year.
The Farmers Market pavilion on Mill Street is home to the Canandaigua Farmer’s Market from June through October. The market attracts hundreds of shoppers every Saturday that it is open.
Visit Downtown Canandaigua in the summer months and you will note the bountiful hanging baskets that the community has become famous for. These gorgeous baskets are purchased through funds raised from the community and are cared for by the BID. Drive through Downtown during the holiday season and you will see it is full of spirit. A Victorian Santa’s House built with community support sits in the Commons Park, fully lit trees line the median, tree trunks on the sidewalks are wrapped in lights and several businesses are outlined with lights and decorated for the season. It is hard to resist the holiday spirit when visiting Canandaigua.
The City of Canandaigua Police Department is very responsive to the needs of Downtown merchants. A parking officer is assigned to the downtown district to make sure that visitors adhere to the parking regulations by keeping the closest spots free for customers. Security cameras in the Commons Park help keep a watchful eye on the area. Late night door checks are another service that is provided by the City Police Department.
Downtown events draw over 50,000 visitors to the district each year. Annual festivals include the Downtown Art & Music Festival and Fall Into Canandaigua. A summer concert series, Downtown Car Show, monthly Wine Walk and Canandaigua ArtWalk keep visitors and residents coming downtown. The holiday season begins in November with the Holiday Open House, Santa’s Arrival, Tree Lighting Ceremony and Free Wagon Rides. Each year Santa receives over 1200 children in his quaint Victorian House at the Commons Park.
With a full-time director on board, the Canandaigua BID is ready to assist business owners with starting, relocating or opening a second location within the Downtown district. The Canandaigua BID will help you find the right location, navigate zoning regulations, educate you on the signage policies and refer you to support organizations when appropriate.
Other notable downtown organizations and programs:
Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce & Tourist Center
Downtown Canandaigua Merchants Association
Canandaigua Arts – over 14 art galleries, artist studios & boutiques
Alive after Five – Businesses stay open late
Call the Canandaigua BID 585-396-0300 today to find out why Downtown is the right place for your business!
Katherine Nevin, Executive Director
115 South Main Street
Canandaigua, NY 14424
Phone: 585-396-0300
Fax: 585-396-7243
e-mail: cdgabid@yahoo.com
BID BOARD: President: Jim Wolfe, VP: Robin Alger, Treasurer: Chris Keys, Secretary: Rick Brown
Jeff Anthony, Stephen Cole, Chris Costello, Paul Harvey, Marsh Seager, Scott Velepec