To the editor:
In response to the letter, “Downtowns are Dead” in the Friday, April 6 edition of Thunder Bay Source:
Mr. Caldwell refers to the downtowns as corpse(s) and dead zones to which I could not disagree more.
In the past year, The Waterfront District (North Core) has seen four businesses expand, more than two new businesses open, and has at least four more businesses scheduled to open within the next few months. We have more than 18 stores/boutiques in The Waterfront District. The former PACI high school is now active once again thanks to Lakehead University, which brings more people and activity downtown.
The nightlife is extremely active with 16 restaurants, 12 bars which showcase live music (regional/national/international musicians of all genres) and entertainment.
There are numerous art galleries, two theatres and ongoing dance/theatre/music classes for children/youth. Just two weeks ago Definitely Superior Art Gallery (aka DefSup) presented their 6th annual "Urban Infill-Art in the Core," a 4-day downtown-wide art exhibition which had 1,450 people in attendance. All of this relates to literally hundreds of thousands of people annually being drawn into the downtown north core, newly branded as "The Waterfront District".
Mr. Caldwell also states “It’s time to get real and grow into one city.” Several years ago our city council designated areas to help promote our city as one city. The south core has been designated as the business district. The move of the courthouse to its new location in the south core will give the downtown a much needed economic boost.
The north core (Waterfront District) has been designated as the entertainment district.
The location of the proposed event centre in this downtown north core would be the best choice.
Picture this: People could attend an event and enjoy the stunning view of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant and take a walk on the waterfront. Walk a few minutes and you can shop in one of our unique shops, dine in one of our many local restaurants, enjoy Art and Art Galleries and take in live theatre or listen to great bands at one of the local night clubs.
There is proven economic spinoff when event centres are built in downtowns. The Waterfront District BIA continues to beautify our area with trees, lighting and new waste receptacles. We support events in our area and host one summer event – this year look for Ribfest in the Waterfront District – and one Christmas event each year.
Let’s continue to work together to make Thunder Bay one great city to live work and play.
Suzan Cooper Rochon
Chairperson
The Waterfront District B.I.A.
