0
The empty downtown
10 July 2010
I was accused of taking my last pictures of an empty downtown on a weekday, when, of course, it would be quiet. So here are two photos taken Saturday, July 10, a few mintues after noon (just as the farmers' market was starting to wind down). Note the lack of patios and the lack of pedestrians - which means the lack of customers. The restaurants I looked into at this end were nearly empty. The stores, too.
And another photo from the same location taken a few minutes later. Not exactly a crowd on our main street on one of the nicest weekends this year. The sort of weekend you'd expect to see a lot more people out and about. Looks to me like the lack of patios has de-animated the downtown and made it less attractive to those who want to enjoy a chance to sit outside, enjoy a meal or beverage. I was told that the Village at Blue was very busy. Of course, they have patios there, beside the buildings where they belong.
I think it's indicative of a slowdown in business when you can easily find several parking spaces on every downtown block. And today, there were many such spaces.
And another photo from the same location taken a few minutes later. Not exactly a crowd on our main street on one of the nicest weekends this year. The sort of weekend you'd expect to see a lot more people out and about. Looks to me like the lack of patios has de-animated the downtown and made it less attractive to those who want to enjoy a chance to sit outside, enjoy a meal or beverage. I was told that the Village at Blue was very busy. Of course, they have patios there, beside the buildings where they belong.
I think it's indicative of a slowdown in business when you can easily find several parking spaces on every downtown block. And today, there were many such spaces.
The patios were the 'jewels' that gave the street life and made it appealing.
The BIA, and the 5 arrogant councillors (with their fingers in their ears), should understand that a vibrant downtown (not just a pretty one), including patios, increases business for everyone downtown.
The BIA has shot themselves in the foot.
The voters will decide what to do with the 5 councillors. I have.