Departure of farmers’ market a ‘big blow’ for revitalization efforts, building owner says
Opening the Continental Treat Fine Bistro in the Quarters three years ago has had it challenges, says Edmonton-based restaurateur Sylvester Borówka, but the situation is getting better, as the city steps up police presence in the area.Once a thriving hub for business, Edmonton’s Quarters District is better known these days for vacant lots, empty storefronts and crime – a tough sell for revitalization efforts, say urban planners, landowners and commercial developers.
“The ground floor has been empty for three years and we have not been able to lease it,” Mr. Dub says, adding that there are currently about a dozen empty storefronts on 97th Street. At the time, the Quarters appeared to be on the cusp of redevelopment, with several construction projects in the works, including the striking 11-storey Hyatt Place Hotel and Hat at Five Corners, a 25-storey apartment tower on Jasper Avenue.— Kalen Anderson, CEO, Urban Development Institute, Edmonton Metro
The first year in the Quarters was particularly difficult, with disturbances from street people, a break-in and vandalism, but the situation is getting better, he says, as the city steps up police presence in the area.The Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market pulled out of the iconic GWG building on 97th Street in the Quarters in January.“We have done everything I can think of to make this area not only busy for us but more entertaining on the weekend,” he says.
The city is in talks with non-profit and private groups about some city-owned vacant sites in the area, he says, adding that the planning department can sell to non-profits below market value in the area.
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