THUNDER BAY – After more than two years, the North Core Streetscape Project and the revitalization of Thunder Bay's downtown waterfront district are complete, prompting celebration plans.
Harbourfest is returning on Thursday in celebration of the reopening and beautification of Red River Road.
Kara Pratt, the Waterfront District Business Improvement Area executive director, said Harbourfest is an evening of activities designed to reconnect the community, support local businesses and showcase the transformation of the district.
Pratt called it a "very pedestrian-centric area," with slower traffic due to people walking along the street.
"It's so great to see a lot of people out enjoying the benches and checking out the businesses, and it just feels wonderful with all the greenery planted," Pratt said. "It's worth just coming to sit and have a coffee and enjoy the view."
She added that there have also been upwards of five new businesses opening up in the district and an uptick in tourist visits from the U.S. and from the cruise lines.
"The fun starts now. We get to use the street as it's intended," Pratt said.
"It's a pedestrian space. It's meant for events and we're working on more permanent closure options with the City of Thunder Bay so we can host things more often and turn it into the plaza street that it's intended to be."
Among the festivities on Thursday during the Harbourfest event are more than 40 vendors, a dog contest, a fashion show, games and other contests. Three bands will fill the evening with live music.
Brian Newman, senior project engineer with the city's infrastructure and operations department, said the completed streetscape has changed Red River Road and Court Street into a welcoming and easy-to-access area that puts people first.
"It's a space made for gathering, supporting local businesses, and celebrating culture," Newman told The Chronicle-Journal.
The project involved the replacement of old underground storm pipes, water lines and sewers, as well as improving the roadway, widening sidewalks with a curbless street design, new lighting, decorative paving, and public art installations. There is now dedicated areas for patios and pedestrian seating.
"This was more than just a construction project, it's about creating a downtown that people are proud of and want to spend time in," he said. "The new north core is a welcoming, accessible space that supports our local businesses, reflects our cultural identity, and gives residents a beautiful place to gather year-round."
Harbourfest will take place on Thursday from 5-11 p.m. with a planned ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m.
The Chronicle-Journal / Local Journalism Initiative
