Supporting Downtown BIA Al Fresco

The COVID-19 pandemic, with all its restrictions, has taken a serious toll on Belleville’s downtown and city council is ready to step up with a helping hand.

At its virtual meeting on Monday, council not only voiced support to restart the economy of the downtown but put up some funding as well.

Council received a lengthy report from the Downtown BIA which included the news that four restaurants and three retail businesses have or will close.

Councillors approved a proposal for Al Fresco on Front this summer.

This also included providing $25,000 from the Municipal Accommodation Tax fund.

The other requests, $22,000 and staff resources, will go to the finance committee for consideration as part of the city’s operating budget on July 6.

Councillor Ryan Williams, chair of the city’s Economic and Destination Development Committee, called the plan “fantastic” and a great way to get something going as soon as possible.

Councillor Bill Sandison noted it would be a boost to the downtown and the issue should be a priority for the Economic Development Committee.

Sandison is calling for an overall plan for the downtown.

The businesses mentioned are Cafe E, Earl and Angelo’s, Modern Cafe, Bourbon and Bean, Stuff Belleville, Tri & Run Sports, and Artists & Artisans.

Al Fresco on Front will create pedestrian green space in parking spaces and have a temporary audio/visual installation so residents can enjoy the downtown outdoor space.

The parklets would be at six locations with outside restaurant additional seating, also set up space for vendors.

The audio/visual installation would run June 26 until July 24.