In 2000, with commercial downtown property values declining, the West Chester Business Improvement District (BID) was formed to re-establish downtown as a destination. Improvements, such as new sidewalks, parking garages, bike racks/lockers, solar trash/recycling cans, and flower planters helped to revitalize the downtown and resulted in much success. Today, the downtown is thriving with a multitude of restaurants, shops, banks, governmental offices, and professional services. The original four-square block downtown, laid out in 1784, has become the Borough’s “Old Town” historic district. A series of historical interpretive signs tell the story of the Borough. Dozens of downtown community events attract thousands to the downtown and creates vibrancy in both the daytime and evening hours. The BID, guided by the Borough’s Downtown Plan, Comprehensive Historic Preservation Plan, and Comprehensive Plan, continues to work diligently to maintain and improve the accessibility, walkability, and attractiveness of downtown.