Dewdney Avenue in Regina has been under construction since April, with the goal of revitalizing the area. However, the construction has had negative impacts on businesses along the avenue. Owners like Mark Heise of Rebellion Brewing and Tyler Poloway of Rooted Living Designs have seen a significant decrease in sales due to poor signage and visibility. Heise mentioned that customers believed Dewdney Avenue was completely closed off, causing sales to dip. Poloway also expressed that people don’t see his shop and therefore don’t think to visit. He has had to rely on external business opportunities to stay afloat during the construction.
Due to limited access to their shops, business owners like Poloway have had to think outside the box and find alternative ways to generate income. For example, hosting workshops outside of the shop and catering to larger office functions have been some of the ways they’ve managed to sustain their businesses. City of Regina water waste and environment director Carolyn Kaleem mentioned that the Dewdney project is about halfway completed and asked for patience from residents and businesses. She added that enhancements in the form of wider sidewalks, improved lighting, and more pedestrian amenities will be seen in the next phase of the project.
Despite the current hardships faced by businesses in the area, there is optimism for the future of Dewdney Avenue. Heise believes that the revamped area will attract more businesses and development, making it a desirable destination for locals and tourists. The project aims to revitalize the entire area, making it a beautiful space that encourages economic growth and community engagement. While the construction process has been challenging, there is hope that the end result will be worth the wait for both businesses and residents in the area.
The impact of construction on Dewdney Avenue businesses has been substantial, with sales declining due to poor visibility and accessibility. Business owners like Heise and Poloway have had to get creative in finding ways to maintain revenue during this challenging period. Despite the current obstacles, there is excitement about the future of the area, with plans for wider sidewalks, enhanced lighting, and more pedestrian amenities in the works. The hope is that the revitalized Dewdney Avenue will attract more businesses and visitors, making it a vibrant hub for the community.
The construction on Dewdney Avenue has caused significant disruptions for businesses in the area, with owners reporting a decrease in sales and visibility. Heise of Rebellion Brewing and Poloway of Rooted Living Designs have both felt the impact, with customers being deterred due to the perception that the avenue is completely closed. To combat the decline in sales, Poloway has had to find alternative revenue streams such as hosting workshops and catering to office functions. With the project about halfway completed, there is anticipation for the beautification features that will enhance the area and attract more businesses. Despite the challenges faced by businesses, there is optimism for a brighter future for Dewdney Avenue.
