Fuchsia Dragon | [email protected]
A temporary expansion of Jasper鈥檚 downtown sidewalks has been proposed to council to help local businesses operate under public health restrictions.
Brett Ireland, co-founder of Bearhill Brewing, presented a concept to Jasper Municipal Council today (Tuesday, May 12) that would see sidewalks expanded on Patricia Street and Connaught Drive to help public safety and assist local businesses as they begin re-open during the pandemic.聽
Ireland said: 鈥淏usinesses and their employees have faced incredibly uncertainty and seemingly endless challenges over the past few months. To be frank, it has been nothing short of terrifying.
鈥淚t鈥檚 our hope that with this idea we can salvage a piece of the wonderful summer seasons we have been fortunate to enjoy in the past.鈥�
Ireland played a council a video compilation of business owners and representatives expressing their support.
鈥淭here is a need for more space,鈥� said Ireland.
鈥淪ome businesses are not viable with the new operating restrictions whether it be due to their physical layouts or the impact the restrictions will place on the economics of their businesses.鈥�
Ireland said restaurants, retail stores and service and rental businesses like bike rentals need more space to offer their products and services.
鈥淲e鈥檝e seen growing success in many communities with takeout and storefront pickup and we anticipate demand for these offerings to increase,鈥� he said.
鈥淗owever, this also increases the need for consumers to have more space to line up for pick up.
鈥淭his idea provides the community with an opportunity to be dynamic and adapt to the changing circumstances and makes us flexible.鈥�
Ireland said consideration would have to be taken on how the project would impact all elements of the business community, like the Shell on Connaught, Motorcycle Tours on Patricia, rafting buses and those with reduced mobility.
He said Banff approved a similar project for the 100 and 200 blocks of Banff Avenue on Monday.
Council directed administration to look into the feasibility of this proposal. The proposal will also be discussed with the COVID-19 Economic Recovery Task Force.
