Castlegar’s economic development manager told city council last week that things are looking good for the local economy.
Mark Laver gave an update that paints a picture of business growth in the area.
More evidence of growth was contained in this month’s business license report which shows there are 681 businesses operating in town — 21 more than at the same period last year.
“These are certainly exciting times,” said Laver. “There are new businesses popping up absolutely everywhere.”
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In fact, there are so many new businesses that Laver had to cancel the annual Storefront of Opportunities event which showcases empty business spaces around town, due to a lack of empty buildings.
Laver said there are numerous reasons that business is booming including upgraded infrastructure projects, a strong business community, lower cost of living and retail space and population growth.
According to Laver, the Castlegar market has been under-served for some time.
“When people see that it is an under-served market, it presents opportunity,” he said.
The economic development office has plans to court housing developers and entertainment businesses in the coming year.
The office’s East/West Kootenay train feasibility study is also moving forward with a consultant selected and data collection and interviews beginning in the next month.