The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is a 501 C(6) nonprofit corporation established in 1979 to revitalize the  downtown corridor and promote the common interests of Downtown businesses. Through attention to streetscape, marketing and  promotions, special events and advocating on issues of safety, public parking and other factors affecting the economic vitality of the downtown district, the BID fulfills its mission. The BID is a special assessment district formed to fund services, activities and programs above and beyond services provided by the City, for the purpose of improving the common areas and strengthening businesses within the district.