Similar to other phases of the project, Phase four will shutter 100 Avenue from 100 to 99 Street next summer (Photo: EverythingGP file photo)

By Shaun Penner

Phase Four Construction

Plan to support impacted businesses in next phase of downtown revitalization being drawn up

Oct 5, 2020 | 5:30 AM

A plan to help support businesses that would be impacted during Phase Four of the Downtown Revitalization Project next summer has been requested by members of Grande Prairie City Council.

A motion for City staff to draw up such a plan was made by Councillor Jackie Clayton at last week’s standing committee meetings, passing with unanimous support, where she said it was important to have a plan to assist businesses that would see construction and road closures in front of their businesses.

Phase Four of the project would include sanitary and storm water services, work on sidewalks, walkways, curbs, gutters and roads, and landscaping, among other things, along 100 Avenue between 100 and 99 Street.

“With the retailers of that block, and retailers of our entire community, just recently having been hit by COVID, for next year it seems to be optimism,” said Clayton. “Retailers are optimistic for what next year could look like, and so to prepare for next year, for this block of retailers, is vitally important.”

Clayton says the plan needs to make it clear to customers how to access the impacted retailers, among other things.

Meaningful Mementos

Remembering Someone You've Lost at Christmas

Dec 03, 2024

Seasonal Sorrow

How Do You Get Through The Holidays When You're Grieving?

Nov 01, 2024

Upcoming Events at Oliver's

Grief & Loss and Estate Planning Seminars

Oct 02, 2024

“I want the alleyways to be open and clean and accessible. I want the communication to be very clear and concise that these stores are open for business, they still want people to come into their stores,” said Clayton. “Whether that means increased parking on certain areas or whether that means better communication of how to get into the stores, enhanced marketing plans, and accessibility to the back of the stores will be vitally important.”

She adds that she knows construction projects can often take longer than planned, and a project of this magnitude is one that could see that stretch of 100 Avenue closed down for most of the summer season.

“Construction is very impactful on small businesses, and the City completely recognizes that,” said Clayton. “The concern being is that we want people to be as successful as possible during construction.”

The drafted plan will be brought back before Council for discussion during November’s budget deliberation.