From now until June 19, the City of St. John’s invites feedback on the current and future level of service for sidewalk snow clearing.
The engagement page at engagestjohns.ca includes information on current sidewalk snow clearing practices and priorities, a mapping tool where residents can add comments, and surveys for the public and the business community. Virtual meetings will take place using Microsoft Teams, please register to participate:
The city is also meeting with key stakeholders throughout the process such as the NL English School District, Metrobus and the business community.
“There has been much conversation on this topic and this engagement is a continuation of that discussion,” explained Councillor Ian Froude, Council lead for Public Works and Sustainability. “We have heard over the past few winters that walkability and the prioritization of clearing sidewalks are important topics for our residents and this engagement provides us with a formal process to gather feedback to assist in our decision-making.”
At the conclusion of the engagement process a ‘What We Heard’ document will be shared publicly to assist Council and staff as they make important decisions regarding sidewalk snow clearing levels in the future.
“While we will collect feedback, review information and make recommendations, changes may need to be phased in over time,” explained Councillor Froude. “We will have to consider each potential improvement or change to ensure we have the budget to make the change effectively. There may be changes possible for 2020-21 but it is also possible we will have to put a plan in place that is long term.”
Residents who have not already registered at engagestjohns.ca are encouraged to do so; during the pandemic, the City of St. John’s will be relying more heavily on online engagement to gather feedback from the public. All news related to this project will be shared electronically via e-mail with registered participants as well as through regular City communication channels.
Those unable to participate online may contact Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY and ask to speak with someone from the sidewalk snow clearing engagement team, or email feedback to engage@stjohns.ca.
Here are 6 tips to help you promote your business during COVID-19:
1. Set up an online store: You don’t need a sophisticated e-commerce site to sell your products online. It can be as simple as showcasing your products on your website, enews, or social media platforms; accepting payment via e-mail money transfer or PayPal; and offering curb-side pickup or delivering/shipping the product to your customer. Do what works for your business and your budget.
If you are looking to build an e-commerce site you have a number of options:
2. Build your digital presence:
Social Media Tips:
3. Offer delivery or curb-side pickup options:
For restaurants or businesses with ordering options, adding a delivery option can help boost your business during a time when many people are unable to leave their homes. There are a number of options available for help with delivering goods if this is a service you wish to offer: Skip the Dishes, Door Dash, etc. Some of these also offer online ordering options.
Contactless curb-side pickup allows customers to safely continue to support you, their favorite downtown business!
4. Run virtual classes or events:
Use your digital presence to host virtual events or create fun videos. Many businesses are getting innovative during these challenging times; from offering virtual yoga classes to online art parties. Hosting an online event is a great way to stay connected with your customers and to keep your business top of mind even though you might be closed to the public.
5. Communicate with your customers: Use social media and e-mail to communicate regularly with your customers about modified hours, how they can continue to support your business, and any special offers you’re running. It’s important to maintain a level of contact with your customers to keep them engaged. Be sure to e-mail details to Downtown St. John’s as well so we can help spread the word – info@downtownstjohns.com.
6. Use your storefront: You might be closed, but your storefront is still visible to anyone going for a walk or shopping for essential products and services in Downtown St. John’s. Use your storefront to enhance your brand with eye-catching displays, and also to communicate about how customers can shop with you during the provincial shutdown.
The Water Street construction project between Ayre’s Cove and Clift’s Baird’s Cove will proceed as scheduled from April to June 2020, with a start date of April 6.
Occupational Health and Safety measures will be implemented based on the latest guidelines recommended for COVID-19. Property owners and business owners in the construction area can contact Shawn Butt, the Water Street Business Liaison with questions or concerns. Shawn can be reached at waterstreetliaison@stjohns.ca or call 770 4233.
A traffic detour will begin on Monday, April 6 and section of Water Street (Bishop’s Cove to Clift’s Baird’s Cove) will be converted to one-way for eastbound traffic, see attached map.
For more information on the Water Street Infrastructure Project visit https://www.engagestjohns.ca/water-street-infrastructure-project
