By: Steve Grillo
Executive Director,
Ridgewood Business Alliance 
Board Member, 
Downtown New Jersey 

One of New Jersey’s newest Special Improvement Districts (SIDs) has launched in Bergen County. The Village of Ridgewood has entered a new chapter in its approach to downtown management and overall economic development with the formation of the Ridgewood Business Alliance (RBA). The RBA is designed to provide dedicated resources, strategic direction, and long-term sustainability for its central business district and surrounding commercial corridors.

The creation of the RBA follows several years of analysis, planning, and public discussion. A formal feasibility study—commissioned in 2023 and presented to the Village Council in 2025—evaluated the structure, costs, and benefits of establishing a SID.

The timing of the RBA’s formation reflects both opportunity and necessity. Like many suburban downtowns, Ridgewood faces increasing competition from e-commerce, regional shopping destinations, and shifting consumer behaviors. At the same time, rising operating costs, parking challenges, and the need for enhanced public spaces have placed pressure on local businesses and property owners.

Village Council discussions over the past two years have frequently emphasized the need for a more coordinated and proactive approach. The RBA will work in partnership with the Village, the local Chamber of Commerce, and the Ridgewood Guild to expand regional marketing and promotion, enhance beautification and public spaces, support business recruitment, and leverage advanced data-driven economic analysis. Deputy Mayor Pamela Perron who serves on the RBA board of directors said “Ridgewood is a marquee community and shopping destination in North Jersey but we needed the structure of a SID to carry us into the future.” “I am thrilled that Ridgewood has joined the New Jersey SID community and we look forward to working with various partners including Downtown New Jersey to strengthen our services.”

The Ridgewood SID has some Downtown New Jersey ties. The feasibility study was conducted by Stuart Koperweis and the newly hired Executive Director is Steve Grillo – both are members of the Downtown New Jersey board of directors.

Mr. Grillo assumed day-to-day operations of the RBA on June 1 after five successful years in the same role with Explore Millburn-Short Hills. In addition, Explore’s Marketing Director, Corinne Mahoney, will join the RBA team in the same capacity in early August.

In Ridgewood, Grillo’s role expands further into research-driven economic development. His work will include analyzing retail and real estate trends, guiding regional marketing efforts, promoting access to capital for businesses, and collaborating with municipal leadership on infrastructure and policy initiatives. This blend of tactical execution and strategic planning reflects a broader evolution in how downtown management organizations operate.

“I am incredibly excited to have the opportunity to serve as the RBA’s first Executive Director,” said Grillo. “This is a remarkable community in so many ways, and it is inspiring to see the Village Council’s commitment to providing the business community with the resources needed to remain competitive for years to come.”

The establishment of the RBA also builds upon existing strengths within the community. Ridgewood already benefits from a highly engaged business community, active volunteer organizations, and a strong municipal framework. The SID provides a mechanism to unify these efforts under a single strategic vision while ensuring consistent funding.

“Downtown Ridgewood and the surrounding commercial corridors are strong – but there are pieces missing,” said Glenn Carlough, RBA’s board chair and owner of the Steel Wheel Tavern. “The RBA will be able to provide data-driven recommendations to attract new businesses, cutting edge assistance for existing ones and capital improvements that have been discussed for some time but have lacked the funding or organization to be implemented.”

Ultimately, the creation of the Ridgewood Business Alliance represents a significant investment in the future of the Village’s downtown. By establishing a dedicated organization with the resources, authority, and expertise to implement long-term strategies, Ridgewood is positioning itself to adapt to changing economic conditions while preserving the character and vitality that define its central business district.