The Flatiron District: Flatiron NoMad Partnership
A hub of activity in the city that never sleeps.
Home to a range of retailers and employers, cultural and educational institutions, and a thriving residential community, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership is a center of activity — one that is, in fact, a mirror into the soul of the city that never sleeps.
From neighborhood enhancements and community building initiatives to the championing of district businesses, the Flatiron NoMad Business Improvement District (BID), commonly known as the Flatiron NoMad Partnership, celebrates
the quintessential New York attitude with a contemporary edge. “For nearly two decades, our team at the Flatiron NoMad Partnership has worked to enhance the vitality and appeal of our district. The result is a dynamic, welcoming urban environment enjoyed by residents, workers, and visitors alike,” said James Mettham, president of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership. “When you think of New York City, you think of neighborhoods that reflect their communities’ vibrancy — with walkable streets, open public spaces, diverse restaurants and retail establishments, and a booming business scene. Flatiron and NoMad offer all that and more.”
Created to facilitate networking among merchants, to host community events, and to advocate for neighborhood improvements, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership is a unique mix of public and private interests unified under a collective purpose: To redefine the urban experience in a progressive and systematic way.
Business improvement districts are not new to New York’s landscape. In fact, according to NYC.gov, the first BIDs were established in New York City about 40 years ago to make commercial corridors across the boroughs “clean and safe.” The Flatiron NoMad Partnership was founded in 2006; originally called the Flatiron/23rd Street Partnership, it was renamed and expanded to include all of NoMad in 2022. The organization has transformed this bustling and diverse neighborhood into a vibrant and shared place for residents, commuters, visitors, and an ever- growing business network — all of which goes a long way toward enhancing the neighborhood experience for those who live, work, and play in the area.
A center of activity, the Flatiron Nomad Partnership plays a role in everything from sanitation and public safety to homeless outreach and district advocacy. The collaboration between the partnership and the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT), for example, stands as a testament to the power of public-private synergy in shaping urban landscapes. Through strategic planning, the BID and DOT collaborate on a spectrum of initiatives, ranging from optimizing pedestrian flow and ensuring safe intersections to implementing innovative streetscape designs that reflect the distinct character of the area.
One shining example of these efforts is the NoMad Piazza, which has become a popular pedestrian venue on Broadway between 25th and 31st streets. The Piazza, is home to some of the neighborhood’s best-known restaurants, unique shopping, and experiential outdoor space, and has become one of the many places to see and be seen in the area.
Tied into the expansion of public outdoor spaces is the BID’s on-going investment in public safety. This commitment includes a focus on strategic lighting installations and partnerships with law enforcement and private security services. A team of public safety officers, for example, is dedicated to ensuring the neighborhood’s well-being as they keep an eye on the road and an ear to the ground, reporting any concerns to NYPD and other city agency partners. These neighborhood ambassadors are equipped to offer directions and assistance to residents, merchants, and visitors, as well as liaison with city authorities, addressing issues in real-time and assisting during emergencies.
Another vital component of the BID is the marketing and events team, which takes on a leadership role in amplifying the voice of the district. Their efforts are behind the captivating events, engaging festivals, and innovative marketing campaigns that celebrate the character of local businesses and serve as a magnet for visitors. The marketing staff at the Flatiron NoMad Partnership are a go-to information resource, and their digital communications go beyond local messaging to promote the district to a wider, more global, audience. The team is responsible for curating one-of-a-kind experiences, including summer activities, holiday programming, happy hours, public arts, Flatiron Plaza activations, and walking tours.
“We’re incredibly proud of the signature programming the Flatiron NoMad Partnership brings to life each year,” said Gregory Godfrey, VP marketing and communications of the Flatiron NoMad Partnership. “Our public plazas and shared streets are often transformed through cultural events like Día de Muertos Week, cutting-edge art installations like Portal, and pop-up activations featuring well-known brands and personalities. We are deeply committed to fostering engagement through interactive experiences that connect people not only with local businesses, but with the heart of our streets. Every opportunity to spotlight our business community and expand their reach is a chance to celebrate the progressive, creative spirit that defines our district.”
With the goal of strengthening the identity of the neighborhood and a budget that enables the BID to have a hand in a wide range of supplemental services, from sweeping sidewalks and shoveling snow to planting seasonal gardens and collecting trash bins, the Flatiron NoMad Partnership speaks directly to establishing and maintaining the neighborhood’s charm and desirability. Their inclusive approach empowers local partners and helps ensure that the Flatiron NoMad corridor remains one of NYC’s most iconic and authentic destinations.