City launches 'Edmonton Advantage' to court business
New four-year economic strategy aims to shake off 'business-unfriendly' reputation, but restaurant owners say change has to be real.
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Edmonton unveiled a new four-year economic development strategy Wednesday, the "Edmonton Advantage," with a stated goal of addressing the city's perception as unfriendly to business — though some owners say it's not just a perception.
Cryille Koppert, chef and owner of Urban Diner and Partake on High Street, said the reality is tougher than a perception problem. Years of construction near 124th Street and 102nd Avenue have cut foot traffic by 40 per cent.
"It's no more fun to have a business here," Koppert said. "Trying to stay alive, that's what we're trying to do here, and that's getting tougher and tougher."
The city's three strategic pillars are enabling a strong business environment, marketing the Edmonton Advantage, and driving investment. Heather Thomson, vice-president of economy and engagement with the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, said the plan is a step forward but called for bigger commitment to cleanliness and beautification.
"When places feel clean, and they are clean, they are actually quite safer," Thomson said. "This is something that we want to see. I think that would hit a lot of economic boxes if we were able to put some serious time and investment into this."
Koppert hopes his restaurant gets a seat at the table as the city implements the plan. "I'd like them to sit with us and talk to us and see what we can do and how can we make things better."