Winnipeg businesses say proposed bus stop could hurt holiday foot traffic

Four Winnipeg business owners say a proposed bus stop installation outside their storefronts could significantly reduce customer access during the busiest shopping season of the year.

The businesses, European Shoe Shop, Maggie Grace Boutique, Central Barbershop and Salt Living, are raising concerns about a Winnipeg Transit plan that would replace on street parking with a bus stop along Academy Road.

“If they can’t get here, and it’s a problem, they are not going to come,” said Laurel Penner, owner of Salt Living. “This is hugely important if we can stay in business.”

The owners say they were notified in October that the parking spaces directly in front of their shops would be removed, with installation originally scheduled for Dec. 15.

Penner said the timing was especially troubling.

“We were devastated, shocked, angered and fearful for the future,” she said. “It was happening in December, our busiest season. It is our make or break season.”

The four businesses represent more than 70 years of combined experience and employ over 20 people. The owners say they rely heavily on street parking for customers, deliveries and accessibility.

Karleigh Evans, owner of Maggie Grace Boutique, said the decision came without consultation.

“Immediately it was very scary because that is a huge impact on all of our businesses,” Evans said. “We were all against this decision made by transit that they did not consult us on.”

Evans said the loss of nearby parking would disproportionately affect elderly clients and complicate deliveries, as the building does not have a loading zone or back lane.

“We have elderly clients that have accessibility needs,” she said. “They need these close parking spots, especially in the winter.”

Days before construction was scheduled to begin, the business owners say they received an email from Winnipeg Transit stating the bus stop installation would be delayed due to sidewalk repairs.

Penner said the city suggested customers use alternative parking farther down Academy Road, but questioned how realistic that option is.

“They said there were 40 spots at the time. It was really 36 and it was blocks away,” Penner said. “They did not have a map.”

CityNews reached out to the City of Winnipeg for comment but did not receive a response yet.

Despite the uncertainty, the business owners say community support has been strong, with customers signing petitions and contacting the city.

“There has been so much support from all of our clients,” Evans said. “People came in just to sign a petition and say they emailed the city.”