PRINCE RUPERT – Four Prince Rupert businesses received funding for façade improvement in 2016, improving the visual landscape of Prince Rupert’s downtown and stimulating potential future investment. The City applied for funding through Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) in order to finance the program, which was administered through the Prince Rupert and Port Edward Economic Development Office.
“The program is a great way for businesses to fund the physical improvements that really draw customers in off the street,” stated Paul Vendittelli, Economic Development Officer. “Façade improvements are a mainstay of economic revitalization efforts in downtown areas across Canada, and we are happy to be able to support local improvements to businesses with the help of NDIT.”
The Business Façade Improvement Program is designed to assist property and business owners with rehabilitating the commercial façades of their properties for the purpose of creating a positive visual impact, stimulating private investment, and complementing other community revitalization efforts.
The program provides grants to property and business owners to renovate restore or redesign retail and commercial building facades and storefronts located in either the Downtown or Cow Bay Development Permit Areas. The four businesses who received funds were Eddies News, Seasport Marine, e’Klektic Trading, and Mckenzie Furniture.
“The goal of the program is to encourage owners of buildings to invest in upgrades that create a more interesting and appealing environment – attracting customers, clients, visitors and businesses to the community,” said Vendittelli.
If you are a business or property owner interested in the program, please contact the Economic Development Officer, Paul Vendittelli at 250.627.5138 or email paul.vendittelli@princerupert.ca for more information.
