BID crew keeps Downtown sparkling

The next time you see someone Downtown wearing charcoal work pants, a royal blue shirt or jacket, and a safety vest with a Downtown BID logo on the back, say hi - and then thank them. These are the folks who ensure that Downtown is clean, colorful and inviting.

The BID Crew strives to keep Downtown litter-free, picking up trash along sidewalks and alleys; removing snow from sidewalks in winter, and power-washing them in summer; putting up and taking down street banners and seasonal decorations; removing or covering graffiti on buildings; pulling weeds in alleys and on sidewalks; and planting and maintaining the seasonal flower beds and hanging baskets. They're also goodwill ambassadors, answering pedestrian questions and providing directions.

Power-washing the sidewalks is one of the team's bigger challenges, Ortiz says. "We have to start early, usually no later than 4 a.m., to ensure we complete a block face before people begin arriving for work. Fortunately, we'll be using new equipment this year that reclaims the water used and makes the whole process much more efficient."

Winter offers its other challenges. While the crew has snowplows for removing big sections, a lot of the snow and ice removal must be done by hand to work in tight areas and ensure no property is damaged in the process.

Ortiz tries to keep open communications with businesses, particularly when there are recurring problems like graffiti. "I'll take photos to document and then once I've established permission, we will try to remove it. Sometimes, though, I'll have to call Code Enforcement to come sandblast if our solvents can't get the job done."

The BID team works primarily in the core district, from Boulder St. south to Colorado Ave., and Cascade Ave. east to Nevada. Some services are extended as far north as St. Vrain, south to Moreno, and east to Weber.

Ortiz has been on the job for nine years and enjoys it tremendously. "The best part is when people come up and say how clean Downtown looks. Talk about pride," she says.

Questions, concerns and ideas about BID maintenance can be directed to Ortiz at 499-7745.

New kid on the block

From Goodwill to Good Stuff

There's a new kid in town for Downtown shoppers and wannabe-vendors. The 18,000 square foot old Goodwill Building at the northwest corner of Colorado and Weber is now home to The Treasure Shoppe. Featuring more than 150 rental spaces for vendors, the indoor marketplace features antiques, arts, collectibles, photography, and more. Co-owner Jim Pryse says a full-service florist and a wedding planner are there now, too.

The Treasure Shoppe had a soft opening on February 1^st, and

If you drink, leave the driving to Designated Drivers

You planned to stop for a quick one at your favorite Downtown watering hole - and then you found your friends, some good tunes, and the party went longer and bigger than you expected.  You know you shouldn't drive, but it's a hassle to have to come get your car in the morning...

Well, that excuse is no longer, thanks to Designated Drivers of Colorado Springs. This new business provides two drivers - one to get you and your car home and the other to pick up your temporary chauffeur once you've been delivered safely.  And the best news of all?  The service is FREE.

When you need a ride, call 650-3450.

Owner Nonie Rispin is hoping to offset the cost of services via advertising sponsorships at the group's web site: www.noduisprings.com.  She says, "The more sponsors we receive, the more teams we can employ."  For more information, give Rispin a call at that same number - 650-3450.