BID NO. 8
Mission
Historic King Drive Business Improvement District (BID) uplifts and preserves the authentic essence of Milwaukee’s King Drive as we progress towards an inclusive, prosperous future.
To truly know Milwaukee, one must step onto Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, meeting neighbors and experiencing the heartbeat of a thriving community.
This historic district is unlike any other in the city – longtime businesses stand proudly alongside new, creating an authentic Milwaukee destination that reflects the area's rich culture.
The BID is home to longstanding businesses like the Fein Brothers restaurant supply store for 90 years, and Bruno’s Floral Shop and Crown Hardware for over 70 years. With new businesses like Niche Book Bar standing alongside these successful stores, visitors and neighbors take in the rich history while experiencing modern services.
From health and wellness storefronts to bustling nightlife, visitors and neighbors can enjoy a collection of rich experiences.
Vision
An inclusive, prosperous, and culturally vibrant King Drive where history is honored, businesses flourish, and community wealth is created for future generations.
Design & Build
We create attractive, safe, and welcoming spaces that celebrate the history, culture, and identity of King Drive through placemaking, streetscape improvements, and historic preservation.
Nationally Accredited Main Street
As the only nationally accredited Main Street organization in the City of Milwaukee, the Historic King Drive BID uses the Main Street Four-Point Approach® as the framework that guides all of our work. This proven model helps us create a vibrant, thriving, and sustainable commercial corridor by focusing on four key areas.
Marketing & Promotions
We elevate the King Drive brand through events, storytelling, and strategic marketing that increase visibility, drive foot traffic, and celebrate local businesses.
Economic Vitality
We strengthen the local economy by supporting businesses, attracting investment, and creating opportunities that build long-term community wealth.
Organizational Excellence
We build strong partnerships, engage stakeholders, and steward resources to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the district.
Together, these four pillars guide how we preserve King Drive's legacy while building a future.