With only a few things left to do this spring, the two-year Waterfront Streetscapes Renewal Project in Thunder Bay has mostly been completed.
The result is a walkable, modern, and beautified district that is meant to be welcoming to both locals and tourists.
Kara Pratt, executive director of the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area, said this year they saw a few new businesses join the area as well as some rotating and growing through incubation in smaller locations. She said each new business adds to the diversity in the waterfront district.
“While some businesses closed or relocated, the district continues to grow, highlighted by expansions such as Swell and Bop Shop,” she said, adding there have also been notable renovations.
A portion of the second floor of the former Eaton’s building is being converted into office space and the former Bank of Montreal is undergoing transformation by Tom Jones Corp. for the Indigenous Friendship Centre.
“We have also begun discussions with the City and the Community Economic Development Commission to actively address vacancies and fill empty spaces in the new year,” she said.
Through 2024, the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area supported 22 local events and organizations through BIA Bucks and in-kind marketing sponsorships.
“We engaged with our community through events like Tonka Tuesday and Trick or Treat in the (business improvement area) and we hosted two Craft Revival events in our area,” she said. “We also hosted the Mean Green Guy and closed down a portion of Red River Road for a small concert through December.”
Pratt says the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area made it a priority to communicate with its members about the construction and assisted the City of Thunder Bay with their communications surrounding construction.
The year brought challenges of inflation, construction impacts, the rise of online shopping post-COVID-19, parking changes, and a few new vacancies.
“Despite these hurdles, we’re optimistic as we work with stakeholders to revitalize empty spaces and enhance the district’s appeal even more,” she said.
Pratt explained how inflation put pressure on costs for local businesses, whom she commends for showing resilience and adapting with creative solutions while continuing to provide products and services to locals and visitors.
“We will always promote shopping locally and in small businesses, as reports have shown 43 to 66 cents per dollar stays in the local economy versus pennies if you shop online outside of the city,” Pratt said. “While inflation has been difficult on us all, these small businesses continue to give back to their community.”
Pratt says Thunder Bay needs strong support for small businesses, a focus on leveraging tourism and local assets and continued infrastructure investment, such as the developments on Red River Road and Court Street.
“We need to showcase Thunder Bay’s strengths, highlight its affordability and economic advantages, and work to enhance the city’s amenities to attract new businesses,” she said. “Strengthening support networks, fostering growth city-wide, and investing in vibrant areas like the waterfront district will help create an inviting environment for corporations, entrepreneurs, and their families.”
Goals for 2025
Pratt said the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area has set out some goals for 2025.
The goals include expanding the Business Improvement Area membership through associate memberships or boundary expansions. The Business Improvement Area wants to attract new businesses through initiatives like a Zero Vacancy program and host events to celebrate the new streetscape to promote its potential for community gatherings.
She said on top of the goal list is the completion the Streetscapes Renewal Project.
