Small business in downtown Drumheller remains vibrant despite changing economic tides.
While many cores ebb and flow with economic challenges, downtown Drumheller appears to be holding its own.
According to Connie Tremblay of downtown Drumheller, the merchant’s association is about 33 strong and have come off a successful summer of events. These include Motorcycle Madness, and most recently Alberta Arts Day celebrations, to name a few. Right now, they are gearing up for the Downtown Trick or Treat.
“The events are a draw to get people to come down, which is great for business,” said Tremblay.
She said this is successful because it is a collaboration. Each business can contribute to the event, and benefit, rather than going alone. Each merchant can also draw on the expertise and experience of its neighbour to make it a success.
One of the rules of business is competition. Tremblay refers to MLA Doug Griffith’s presentation called “13 Ways to Kill Your Community.”
“He says how important it is to have that competition. People want that competition. Some say, ‘Why should I move downtown, because there are already two coffee shops?’ Why not three coffee shops?” she said.
The efforts to keep the downtown community strong continue. Right now, they are in the midst of a heritage inventory, with hopes of working towards becoming part of the Mainstreet Program. The Centennial of Coal Mining committee is working on erecting a memorial to fallen miners, and the idea of creating a town centre is still on the agenda.
The Town of Drumheller is also taking a very serious look at moving back to the core.
“Once the town office is downtown, I think it is definitely going to be a benefit. It is going to establish a core. When people stop off at town hall, they will be right there, and can shop,” said Tremblay.
“There really is a lot going on.”
