August 20, 2015
Report Charts Path On Development For Downtown Brandon
– – –Downtown Brandon Development Forum Report Helps Share Insights On Advantages to Working and Doing Business Downtown: Minister Caldwell
Political, business and community leaders have charted a course for future downtown Brandon revitalization in the Downtown Brandon Development Forum Report, Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell and Mayor Rick Chrest, City of Brandon announced today.
“This report provides concrete ideas for development strategies that will re-energize the core of this great city,” said Minister Caldwell. “By building on the achievements of current businesses, promoting the advantages of working and living downtown and identifying and addressing challenges, we can help foster greater vitality in downtown Brandon.”
The information in the report was gathered at the Downtown Brandon Development Forum held in Feb. 2015 and had insights from about 70 attendees. Delegates who attended the forum said advantages to working and doing business in downtown Brandon include the history, heritage of buildings, affordability, visibility and walkability of the city. Other advantages were the distinct identity and unique downtown culture, as well as the mutual support of other downtown businesses.
“I was extremely impressed by the significant engagement and commitment of the many downtown stakeholders who attended the Downtown Brandon Development Forum,” said Chrest. “Thanks to the efforts and energy of all those involved, there are specific ideas with effective ways to move forward with the reinvigoration of downtown Brandon.”
Brandon is the economic hub for southwest Manitoba and acts as the service centre for about 180,000 people. The forum was organized by the minister in partnership with the mayor of Brandon and in collaboration with Renaissance Brandon.
“To make positive change and revitalize underdeveloped areas of our downtown, we need the private, public and non-profit sectors to work collectively,” said Steve McMillan, board chair, Renaissance Brandon. “This forum served as an excellent opportunity to strengthen the connections between downtown stakeholders and decision makers. It will be imperative to keep the lines of communication open as we move forward in order to keep this positive momentum going.”
The Manitoba government has made investments based on the recommendations of local leaders, noted Minister Caldwell. This includes the creation of the Kristopher Campbell Skateboard Plaza, the redevelopment of the downtown YMCA and the assembly of commercial development property along Princess Avenue.
To view the report, visit www.gov.mb.ca/ia/bldgcomm/brs.html.
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