The Town of Saugeen Shores and the Business Improvement Area (BIA) are being recognized for their efforts to support businesses during the reconstruction of High Street in Southampton.
They received a Certificate of Merit at the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) Conference Awards Dinner last week.
The Southampton BIA submitted the project to the awards this year under the Streetscaping & Public Realm Improvements category.
A release from the Town says the submission highlighted the strong collaboration between the Town and the BIA, ensuring that above-grade streetscape upgrades reflected several years of BIA-led planning and broad support from BIA members, as well as the efforts to support businesses through construction.
They say a key focus of the submission was the coordinated approach to communication, including regular weekly updates between the Town, the BIA, and High Street businesses. It also highlighted promotions and events hosted throughout the construction period like the Love Local campaign, free giveaways, radio ads and ‘Open for business’ signage.
Sara Porter, Chair of the Southampton Business Improvement Area, says in a statement, “Our goal was to make sure business owners felt supported and that residents continued to shop, dine, and explore downtown Southampton.”
She added, “This recognition isn’t just about the final streetscape, but the care, communication, and collaboration that went into getting us there. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when the Town and the BIA work side by side.”
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says in a statement, “This recognition celebrates the significant investment that we are making on Southampton’s High Street,” adding, “In partnership with the BIA and the broader community, we are refreshing our downtown infrastructure, supporting our local businesses, and creating a more vibrant space for the community.”
Phase two of the project is now underway, focusing on improving infrastructure and enhancing the streetscape between Grosvenor Street and the flag at the end of High Street by the beach.