October 15, 2024 \u2013 Federal workers returning to office spaces have brought new energy to downtown districts, boosting local businesses that long struggled with low foot traffic during the pandemic. While the mandated return to the office three days a week has sparked complaints about commutes and parking congestion, many business owners are celebrating increased sales and bustling streets.<\/p>\n
Surge in Sales: A Welcome Change for Coffee Shops and Restaurants<\/p>\n
The impact was almost immediate, according to Craig MacLeod, owner of Manhattan Coffee Company, located on Laurier Avenue W. \u201cWe saw a noticeable uptick right from September 9,\u201d MacLeod shared, referencing the official start of the three-day work week for federal employees.<\/p>\n
After enduring the challenges of starting his coffee shop nine months before the COVID-19 pandemic, MacLeod now reports a 30-40% increase in sales on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. \u201cThose days are pretty bumping now,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Nearby food businesses are also feeling the positive effects. Alejandri Diaz, owner of Gooney\u2019s Arepas and Sandwich Works on Albert Street, noted that the lunch rush between Tuesday and Thursday has been \u201cmadness.\u201d Despite the complaints from some customers about returning to work, Diaz is happy to see familiar faces. \u201cIt\u2019s good to have a routine again,\u201d she added. \u201cThree out of five customers say they\u2019re glad to be back.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mixed Reactions from Employees and Businesses<\/p>\n
While some employees are reluctant about the return, businesses like Hair Games Salon on Elgin Street have benefited from increased walk-ins. According to stylist Kyle Saldanha, workers are more inclined to book hair appointments during lunch breaks or after work instead of waiting for weekends.<\/p>\n
However, not every business downtown relied on the federal workforce. Liz Ogilvie, co-owner of Hair Junkie salon, said her business remained steady even when government offices were empty. Yet, she admitted that the recent traffic surge has complicated parking for her clients. \u201cIt\u2019s nice to see more people around, but parking is definitely a challenge,\u201d Ogilvie observed.<\/p>\n
MacLeod echoed these frustrations, pointing out that many customers are grumbling about traffic and public transportation. \u201cThe workers were the first to leave and the last to come back, so it’s been an adjustment,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Sparks Street: Signs of Recovery Amid Empty Office Spaces<\/p>\n
The Sparks Street district is also witnessing a revival. Kevin McHale, Executive Director of the Sparks Street Business Improvement Area (BIA), noted that the influx of workers has boosted foot traffic. \u201cThe announcement of the office mandate was a positive boost for our membership,\u201d McHale explained.<\/p>\n
However, he acknowledged that some office buildings remain underutilized. \u201cProperty owners need to figure out how to maximize these spaces,\u201d McHale urged. Still, he remains optimistic, pointing out new trends such as running groups and cycling clubs gathering on Sparks Street. \u201cWe didn\u2019t see this kind of community activity ten years ago,\u201d he remarked.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/p>\n
As federal employees settle into their new three-day work routine, downtown businesses are experiencing a significant rebound. Although traffic and parking challenges remain, local entrepreneurs are welcoming the renewed buzz. From coffee shops to salons, business owners are hopeful that the momentum will continue, fostering a long-term revival of the downtown economy.<\/p>\n
Source : Swifteradio.com<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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