Ontario Construction News staff writer
For the third year, Core Area Construction Dollars are available to support downtown businesses during London’s busiest construction season.
From now until November 2022, anyone visiting the core can receive Construction Dollars from the Downtown London Business Association and Old East Village BIA as well as their businesses, through giveaways, contests, events, and promotions.
Vouchers in $5, $10 and $20 amounts can be redeemed at participating businesses until Nov. 30 and businesses are reimbursed 100 percent of the value through the Core Area Action Plan.
“This is a record year for construction, with a major focus on downtown, where we’re building better connections to and through the core with the Downtown Loop and East London Link projects,” says Jennie Dann, director of construction and infrastructure services. “While we work to revitalize the core through these key projects, Construction Dollars will help to support local businesses.”
The program was launched in 2020 as a four-year pilot program funded by the City through the Core Area Action Plan, which was developed with local stakeholders to support the core and generate new growth and investment. Delivered through the BIAs, this program will contribute over $90,000 into the local economy this year, incentivizing customers to shop, dine and experience the core.
“During the construction season, our downtown businesses remain open” says Barbara Maly, Executive Director, Downtown London. “London’s downtown has several new businesses and restaurants, many old favorites, great patios and fantastic events and entertainment options and Construction Dollars are an added bonus to help customers and visitors explore our unique offerings.”
Orange signs in business windows indicate where customers can spend their Construction Dollars. The Downtown London Business Association and Old East Village BIA websites also show a full list of participating businesses.