By Dan Pujdak
Lowertown is getting ready for its “best summer ever” – at least if our local BIAs have anything to say about it.
After two years of pandemic shutdowns and a month-long occupation, businesses in Lowertown are reopening and customers are starting to come back. Kalin McCluskey, Executive Director of the ByWard Market BIA, and Andrew Peck, Executive Director of the Downtown Rideau BIA, have heard from businesses about the impacts of both disruptions on their livelihoods. Yet, both are optimistic about what lies ahead.
Lowertown is “a great place to be,” said Ms. McCluskey, noting the vitality of the “incredible business community” in the ByWard market area.
Ms. McCluskey and Mr. Peck are collaborating to promote feet on the street in Lowertown. Currently, both are going door to door to promote the Downtown Ottawa Business Relief Fund, a support fund that eligible businesses can access through Invest Ottawa. The fund will distribute up to $15,000 per eligible business to offset “extraordinary costs related to… the demonstrations.”
In the weeks ahead, both are exploring joint activities that will promote Lowertown and the Ottawa core, while each BIA also continues to focus on events and programming to support their local businesses. The intent of their collaboration, according to Mr. Peck, is to “build a destination” that encompasses the full range of businesses and culture in the region.
“This is a rebuilding exercise where it will take everyone to come together,” said Mr. Peck.
Each BIA is also planning marketing campaigns and events that will profile their local areas during the warm months ahead. More information about ByWard Market and Downtown Rideau spring and summer campaigns will be posted on the social media accounts of each BIA in the weeks ahead. Local businesses can also expect updates soon via e-mail or through regular BIA bulletins.
Both BIAs also recognized the support from local residents over the past two years and see local shopping as an important driver for the community. Their advice to local residents looking to help rebuild our neighbourhood in the wake of global disruptions: continue to shop local and invite your friends and family to visit. And don’t forget, some businesses still require masks!