Thorold BIA Forecast for 2009 By Becky Day

The Thorold Business Improvement Association (Downtown Association) accomplished several projects in 2008. Achieved initiatives included a website, strategic plan, bike rack downtown, new Christmas decorations and patio legislation to make the street more visually appealing. The downtown core hosted and supported plenty of seasonal community events, including their annual summer celebration and car show.

Over the past year, the BIA welcomed new business, more heritage designation and an increase in facade improvements. You will notice the downtown is looking better than ever, and now possesses many of the features of other downtowns.

The goals set for 2009- The BIA will continue to revitalize, improve, beautify, maintain and promote downtown Thorold as a desirable and unique place for specialty business and shopping in Niagara.

Representing approximately 120 businesses and supporting the downtown business people, the BIA plans on working diligently to keep a clean, safe and attractive area for local residents and visitors.
The hope is to enhance the development of existing business and to work cooperatively with City economic development to attract new businesses, creating a more favourable economic climate and overall prosperity for the downtown area.
In 2009, the main focus will be on marketing the downtown as a whole, keeping the website current and increasing police presence. The BIA also looks forward to beautification initiatives that will show year round by continuing the Christmas decoration project. The BIA also hopes to show their commitment to the environment by introducing recycling receptacles.

With continued support from LACAC, the BIA will encourage more building owners to take part in the facade improvement program. They also look forward to continuing their partnership with the City of Thorold, Thorold Tourism and other committees in the area.