About Downtown Kirkwood SBD
The Downtown Kirkwood Special Business District (SBD) was created in 1983 to strengthen and promote our historic downtown. Funded through a dedicated district tax and supported by the City of Kirkwood, the SBD invests directly in projects that make downtown a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, and community life.
How We’re Governed
The SBD is guided by an Advisory Commission of local business and property owners, appointed by the Kirkwood City Council. Working closely with City staff, the Commission helps shape policies, programs, and budgets that benefit the district while preserving its historic charm.
What We Do
The SBD’s mission is simple: preserve Kirkwood’s character while supporting sustainable growth. We do this by:
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Promoting Downtown through marketing and events that attract visitors and showcase local businesses.
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Hosting Community Events like the Farmers Market, Witches’ Walk, Wine Walk, Holiday Walk, and Cars & Guitars.
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Beautifying the District with seasonal decorations, landscaping, lighting, and signage.
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Supporting Businesses with resources, parking solutions, and a direct connection to City government.
Downtown Kirkwood is the heart of our community—and the SBD is here to keep it thriving for generations to come.
The Advisory Commission
Our Team
Downtown Kirkwood Programs
Downtown Kirkwood Staff works closely with the SBD Advisory Committee and City Council to continually enhance our Business District. Current efforts include:
Advertising & Marketing
Downtown Kirkwood members benefit from an advertising program that promotes the Special Business District and its members. The Downtown Kirkwood organization coordinates and subsidizes the cost of group advertising to make advertising more affordable for our members.
Kirkwood Farmers Market
The Kirkwood Special Business District proudly operates the Kirkwood Farmers’ Market, a community tradition since 1976. For nearly 50 years, the Market has not only connected neighbors with fresh produce and local goods but has also served as an incubator for small businesses. A number of today’s thriving Downtown Kirkwood brick-and-mortar shops got their start as vendors at the Market. As we approach the 50th anniversary in 2026, we celebrate both its legacy and its role in shaping the future of our downtown.
Facade Improvement Program
This program makes five thousand dollars of matching grant funds available to business and property owners for exterior improvements to Downtown Kirkwood properties. For more information, please call 314-822-0084.
Gift Certificates
Gift Certificates are available for purchase at the Downtown Kirkwood office at 130 East Jefferson, to encourage people to shop and dine in Downtown Kirkwood. Available in $5, $10, $20, and $25 increments. Cash, check, or charge is accepted. Some exclusions apply. Please call (314) 822-0084 or fill out our online form to order gift certificates.
Employee Parking Permits
Downtown Kirkwood administers the City of Kirkwood's Downtown Kirkwood Employee Parking Program. Permits are available for purchase at the Downtown Kirkwood office for 9 city lots located throughout the district. Permits are valid for the calendar year.
Events
The Kirkwood Special Business District hosts events year-round to draw visitors and showcase downtown’s shops, restaurants, and charm. From the Farmers’ Market to the Wine Walk, Witch’s Walk, Holiday Walk, and Cars & Guitars Festival, these gatherings bring people together and strengthen Kirkwood’s sense of community.
Serve on the DTK Advisory Commission
If you are a property owner, business owner, or manager of a municipally licensed business within the Downtown Kirkwood Special Business District (SBD), you are eligible to serve on the Downtown Kirkwood Advisory Commission (DKAC). Commissioners serve three-year terms and meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 8:00 a.m. Meetings typically last 75 to 90 minutes.
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The role of a Commissioner is to work alongside SBD staff to strengthen Downtown Kirkwood as a vibrant destination for shopping, dining, living, and working. Commissioners help guide the district’s mission, set strategic goals, and allocate the budget that is submitted to City Council for approval. Serving on the DKAC is both personally and professionally rewarding, offering the chance to connect with business leaders, elected officials, and community members while gaining a deeper appreciation of what it means to support a thriving downtown district.
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Candidates for the DKAC are nominated by the Commission’s Nominating Committee, approved by the DKAC, and then placed on a ballot mailed to all members of the SBD. After the votes are tallied, the top candidates are submitted to Kirkwood City Council for official appointment. If you are interested in serving, please contact the Downtown Kirkwood Executive Director to be considered for nomination.
Contact Us
Visit & Contact Info
Downtown Kirkwood SBD
130 E. Jefferson
Kirkwood, MO 63122
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Office Open Monday - Friday
9 am - 5 pm
*Located next to Kirkwood Library
