More Red Deerians soaked in the downtown summer vibe in the last three weeks thanks to Ross Street Patio’s transition into an Entertainment District, says the Downtown Business Association chair.
“It’s just so impressive to see the citizens enjoying the space. It’s just been so great. We couldn’t be more pleased. It’s been wonderful despite the weather,” said Brandon Bouchard, who is also the manager of Tribe restaurant and bar.
The DBA was designated the operator of the district that allows adults to consume alcohol at the picnic tables and benches on the patio. Alcoholic beverages must be purchased from businesses within the site and must be consumed within the boundaries of the district.
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Bouchard said there have been very few questions about the district’s rules.
“The signage is out and it’s pretty clear. You can’t bring outside alcohol into the space, and you can’t leave with alcohol outside of the space. Everybody has been respectful of that.”
He said there’s been a definite uptick in foot traffic and sales in recent weeks, especially on Canada Day, when people came out for the entertainment. The patio was responsible for about 30 per cent of sales for Tribe on Canada Day, and neighbouring businesses also reported increased sales.
“The great part was that folks were coming down to the Ross Street Patio and they were staying, which is the ultimate goal. To have the citizens enjoy the space and stay for a longer period of time.”
The DBA’s Clean Team keeps the site tidy. But Bouchard said people are mostly cleaning up after themselves, even the crowd on Canada Day. People inside and outside the patio are respectful of each other and the space.
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Konrad Dunbar, engineering manager with the City of Red Deer, said there have been no issues reported in connection to the Entertainment District.
“What we’re seeing and hearing is it’s working really well. Weather obviously has an impact on usage, but even so, we’re very pleased with how it’s worked,” said Dunbar who recently provided city council with a favourable update on the patio. He said businesses are appreciating that the patio gives them some flexibility so they don’t have to turn customers away.
Located on the north side of Ross (50) Street, between 49 Avenue and 50 (“Little Gaetz”) Avenue, the Ross Street Patio Entertainment District will operate weekly from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
For a schedule of Ross Street Patio entertainment, visit downtownreddeer.com/ross-street-patio.
Bouchard said more performers will be added to the list, and the arts and culture event Meet the Street, and the street performer festival Centrefest are also coming to the downtown.
“It’s the place to be this summer so come on down and see us.”
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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