Image improvement projects worth the effort

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 25/01/2016 (3794 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Marketing our businesses and area is an important component of what we do, and most have seen the banners, publications, ads and commercials produced by the BIZ to draw attention and people to our area.

 But just as important are the many projects that contribute to making our area more appealing for those visitors once they get here.

Spring and summer are busy times and you’ll see BIZ teams out on the street every day.

Before that happens, a lot of planning goes on behind the scenes. Winter sees us shift heavily into planning mode and it’s just as busy as the summer. Everything requires research, development of terms of reference, budgets and funding, timelines and logistics, plus a whole lot of brainstorming, debate and problem solving.

We engage with area stakeholders and compile and study a wide array of information and trends. That helps us determine what projects, programs and initiatives will have the most positive impact in contributing to making our communities vibrant and attractive for businesses, residents, customers, employees and visitors.

Capital projects, investment into streetscape initiatives and even minor enhancements show commitment to an area and the results help encourage other positive development and build strong community.

Along with our regular programs, our line-up for 2016 includes exciting new murals, the completion of two new public space projects on Sargent Avenue, enhancement initiatives on Erin and Wall streets, and a project called Brush up BIZ which will show how easy a small investment in a fresh look can make a big difference to a street.

Take Pride Winnipeg! operates Brush up Winnipeg, a spring program that helps homeowners get a refresh to the outside of their homes. Over 80 homes have been painted around the city in the last few years with this program.

“It not only gives the homeowners a boost, but the whole street! We are pleased the West End BIZ wants to build off on our program to make a similar impact for businesses” says Tom Ethans, executive director of Take Pride Winnipeg.

John Unger of John’s Hair Designers on Sargent Avenue has a long history of working to improve the community.

“I would really love to see more business and property owners get involved in sprucing up their places; it makes such a huge difference,” says John.

“I also like partnering for projects, and when it’s done with any level of government, that spirit of mutual co-operation and joint ownership offers some of the best value for your dollar.”

We invite people to operate a business, work, live, play, dine, shop and enjoy visiting our wonderful West End, and we don’t want them disappointed by their perception or experience. So on with the projects! What’s yours for this summer?

Gloria Cardwell-Hoeppner is executive director of the West End Business Improvement Zone (BIZ). You can call her at 204-954-7900 or email her at gloria@westendbiz.ca