The Essex Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an association of business people who have joined together to improve business for the more than 200 businesses and services in its jurisdiction.

Operating through a board of 8 individuals who own or work in downtown businesses, the BIA's primary function is twofold: one is to improve the physical environment of the area, and the other is assist with economic redevelopment of the local business community through area-wide promotion and advertising.

Our BIA provides both the organized structure and the source of funds to help improve our business economy and to make our town a better place in which to live and to make a living.

The board meets on the second Tuesday of each month to discuss long-range planning and to deal with new and ongoing issues.

  • Attract and maintain customers in the area.
  • Build a positive image for the area.
  • Effectively promote the BIA.
  • Provide a direction of accomplishment for BIA members.
  • Generate greater community interest and pride.
  • Provide for a greater spirit of co-operation and enthusiasm within the BIA.
  • Provide and secure sources of funding for undertaking short and long-term projects, planned and carried out in an orderly manner.