Mayor Proclaims October 8-14 as BIA Week in Calgary
Today, Mayor Jyoti Gondek officially proclaimed October 8-14, 2024 as Business Improvement Area (BIA) Week in Calgary, marking a significant milestone in the city’s history. This year, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of BIAs, formerly known as Business Revitalization Zones (BRZ), which have been instrumental in supporting the development of local businesses, public spaces and neighbourhoods.
“On behalf of my Council colleagues, it is a privilege to proclaim October 8 to 14 as BIA Week in Calgary,” says Mayor Gondek. “Over the past four decades, BIAs have played a crucial role in creating some of Calgary’s most beloved main streets, through economic development initiatives, beautification projects, community events, placemaking and advocacy for their member businesses. Their contributions are vital to the growth of our local economy, and we look forward to many more successful years to come.”
“I’d like to express my gratitude to Calgary’s 15 BIAs for the important work they do representing more than 6,400 businesses across our city,” says David Duckworth, Chief Administrative Officer, The City of Calgary. “It is not a coincidence that some of Calgary’s most cherished business neighbourhoods are located where BIAs operate.”
In 1984, the 17th Avenue Retail & Entertainment District and Marda Loop BIAs were the first to be established in Calgary. They have since transformed both areas into the bustling and iconic business districts they are today.
Another such example is International Avenue along 17th avenue S.E., which is well known for its diverse mix of restaurants, grocery and retail. "We have been the catalyst for the regeneration of the east Calgary area for decades and are privileged to serve the many fine businesses who have invested in the improvement of International Avenue for over 30 years,” says Alison Karim-McSwiney, Executive Director at International Ave BRZ (BIA). “From placemaking, crime prevention, economic development, maintenance and events we have championed the urban regeneration deserving of east Calgary and continue to be a launching pad for many new Canadians to build a better life through innovative businesses and services."
“I have seen the number of BIAs increase over the years because we bring such value and support to businesses and to Calgary,” says Annie MacInnis Executive Director of 21 years for the Kensington BRZ (BIA). “We are a collective voice for businesses to The City on major projects, as well as help Council and administration with the development of business-friendly policies. As a result, today Kensington is a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly, inner-city shopping destination where community members and tourists frequent our variety of businesses.”
Calgarians can participate in BIA Week and 40th anniversary celebrations by visiting BIAs and supporting local businesses. There are many ways to do that including leaving positive online reviews, subscribing to business mailing lists, following their social media, sharing favorite businesses with others and shopping at stores in-person and online. By supporting local you contribute directly to Calgary’s economic resilience and enhance local livelihoods.
For more information about BIAs, visit Calgary.ca/BIA.