Downtown Boston Business Improvement District

Block by Block began providing a wide variety of services to Boston's first improvement district on April 4, 2011. Services are delivered in Boston's historic 'Downtown Crossing' area and the financial district. A team of 30 Ambassadors are on the street to address cleaning issues such as litter, weeds, and graffiti. Additionally, power washing services are provided through a relationship with a well respected Boston social serivce provider, Project Place. The power washing component is directly overseen and managed by Block by Block. Hospitality Ambassadors are also on the street seven days per week to actively engage the public to serve as a welcoming presence to the more than 2 million people who make their way into the district each year either on the Freedom Trail, to take in a show at one of the theateres in the district, or for shopping at one the many retailers.

Photos

A Boston BID Hospitality Ambassador gives directions to a group on the Freedom Trail A Hospitality Ambassador gives directions to a district visitor BEFORE - A Downtown Boston BID Cleaning Ambassador working to clean out a ventilation grate AFTER - the results of our special project intiaitives to clean out ventilation grates throughout the district

Heard On The Street

Boston, MA: "I just have to say that your program is the best thing to hit Downtown Crossing Boston in years.  It is so nice to see the streets clean, no paper on the ground, no cigarette butts – people are very appreciative of this.   The Ambassadors are always smiling, willing to answer questions and just say 'Hi' as you walk by.

It is a wonderful program and I hope it continues. Kudos to all!"

Jane G.
Jamaica Plain, MA

Boston, MA: “I had the pleasure of visiting Boston last Saturday and Sunday with my daughter. As we were walking around with map in hand, I had an Ambassador stroll up to us to help.

I didn't know such a thing existed in Boston!  She very kindly directed me to where I was headed.  She was extremely kind, funny, and helpful. It was my pleasure to meet her, and I believe she saved me some time in my travels. 

You have a wonderful program, and I loved my time in Boston."

Marybeth Q.

Boston, MA: "Last Thursday, I was at Downtown Crossing when a man came up to me and asked me if I needed help. My immediate response was to say 'no' and keep walking.    However, I stopped and looked at him, realized he wasn't asking for a handout or bothering me. He really wanted to help.

 

What a nice service! I'm from the suburbs, enjoy visiting the city and am cautious when approached by a stranger. But he was terrific. He pointed me in the right direction, and I said I'd like to give my comment to your organization.

Keep up this service and let's have Boston visitors this spring and summer feel that someone does care to be friendly and helpful."

Janis U.
Westwood, MA

 

Boston, MA: "I had a friend in town visiting from Toronto (Canada) and while visiting the Downtown area, an Ambassador asked us if he could help us with anything. Although we didn't need anything (because I've been living here for the last few months and now know the area), his approach was very genuine and he let us know that the people in the green sweaters were here to answer any questions for us. 

My friend was surprised at how friendly he was and has gone back to Toronto telling everyone that Boston has the friendliest people she's ever met.
Thank you for making my friend's 2 days in Boston great, and for showing her what Boston is made of!"
Alia M.
Boston, MA 

Boston, MA: "My friends and I were in Boston to watch my daughter run the Marathon. We were walking around and asked an Ambassador for directions to the aquarium. She was especially helpful, friendly and enthusiastic. Please acknowledge her efforts and I thank your organization for all you do."

Marsha M.
New Jersey