Creating a Refreshed Strategic Plan for a Business District in Motion

Like many business districts, the Riverside BIA (Business Improvement Area) was navigating multiple changes—from construction of a new major transit line and future housing development to demographic and economic shifts. I came in to help them better understand the context and chart a path forward with a new Strategic Plan. The six interconnected strategic priorities and actions outlined in this plan provide a framework for a more vibrant and resilient future, building on the BIA’s legacy and unique assets.

As the strategy lead, I began with a discovery phase to hear the perspectives of about 100 diverse stakeholders through interviews, surveys and a street fest pop up. My approach helped to surface the nuances of the BIA’s unique context and character, key trends, challenges, strengths, opportunities and aspirations. From here, I outlined core insights, themes and ideas to bring into the next phase.

For the strategy co-design phase, I drafted a suite of strategic priorities and related actions, reflecting the priorities of the community. Working collaboratively with the Executive Director in an iterative approach, along with input from the Board of Management, further strengthened the strategy and built a cohesive approach.

The Riverside BIA, which turns 50 years in 2030, can now move forward with more confidence and focus, with an inspiring and grounded framework to guide their decisions and directions into their next half-century of impact, and use the plan to help secure support for the work. The priorities are now clear. Diverse stakeholders are aligned. A flourishing future is on the horizon.