In addition to conventional economic development, Bloomington understands that sparking the right type of growth in the local economy requires a custom-built, "new tradition" approach. Keeping an eye toward our cultural community is vital to our economic development vision. Preserving and enhancing the very high quality of life that Bloomington enjoys will allow for the continued attraction, retention and growth of successful businesses across economic sectors.

In fact, Bloomington's high quality of life is both largely due to and bolstered by a strong creative economy. Our vibrant arts and entertainment scene is anchored by one of the world's top-ranked schools of music, the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District (BEAD), first-rate museums, shops, galleries, live performances, historic sites, restaurants and the B-Line Trail.

At the heart of these cultural offerings are the hundreds of talented artists, musicians, restauranteurs and entrepreneurs who make their living at their craft and who make Bloomington a small town with a world class culture. This is a tremendous draw for people who want to visit Bloomington, start a business here or simply call it home.

In collaboration with local private and non-profit organizations, the City of Bloomington invests time and effort into strengthening such new sources of growth for the Bloomington community.

Bloomington's newest assets, including BEAD and the B-Line Trail, have been brought to life through significant economic develolpment efforts. BEAD seeks to bring the business and creative sectors together to advance commerce and culture, build community and spur economic development by providing:

The B-Line Trail is located in the heart of downtown Bloomington and within the City of Bloomington’s Entertainment and Arts District. It functions not only as an alternative transportation thoroughfare and linear park for recreation and fitness, but also as a new outlet for downtown merchants and popular downtown gathering place.

Mayor Mark Kruzan has continually called the B-Line Trail the single most significant economic development project on the City’s agenda. New and existing business owners hoping to capitalize on the energy and buzz generated by the B-Line Trail have been working with the City and the Bloomington Urban Enterprise Association to enhance their facades, revitalize underutilized commercial space and transform their corporate presence. Businesses along the B-Line are encouraged to apply for funding opportunities to improve their facades or enhance their presence. Opportunities also exist for temporary vending on specified areas of the B-Line.