Theft and Shoplifting Lead to Uncertainty for Ottawa's ByWard Market and Rideau Street Businesses

A recent survey by the Downtown Rideau Business Improvement Area (BIA) has highlighted a troubling trend among business owners in Ottawa's ByWard Market and Rideau Street. Over half of these owners are uncertain or unwilling to extend their leases due to frequent theft and shoplifting incidents.

The survey, which polled over 200 brick-and-mortar businesses, revealed that 45% of businesses in the ByWard Market and 43% of businesses on Rideau Street are uncertain about extending their leases. Additionally, 9% of Rideau Street businesses and 19% of businesses in the ByWard Market stated they would not be extending their leases due to concerns about their future in the area.

Why this matters: The uncertainty surrounding lease renewals could have broader implications for the local economy and the vibrancy of these historic districts. If left unaddressed, the issue may lead to a decline in business activity, job losses, and a negative impact on the community.

The prevalence of theft and shoplifting in the area is a significant concern. According to the survey, 40% of businesses on Rideau Street and 21% of businesses in the ByWard Market experience theft or shoplifting frequently. Furthermore, 33% of businesses on Rideau Street and 35% in the ByWard Market report experiencing theft or shoplifting sometimes.

The financial impact of these incidents is substantial. The estimated losses due to theft in 2023 totaled $1.46 million, with $1.36 million attributed to businesses on Rideau Street and $107,800 attributed to businesses in the ByWard Market, resulting in significant charges.

The survey's findings suggest that theft and shoplifting are significant concerns for business owners in the area, leading to uncertainty about their future in Ottawa's popular tourist district. The uncertainty about lease renewals could have broader implications for the local economy and the vibrancy of these historic districts.

In response to these challenges, the city of Ottawa is introducing a new plan to revitalize the ByWard Market. The 'ByWard Market Strategic Alignment Initiative' aims to create a more attractive area for businesses, residents, and visitors. Key proposals include introducing a special tax for ByWard Market businesses, funding for street renewal and public space creation, and the redevelopment of the 70 Clarence Street municipal parking garage into a public space.

The plan also includes a national urban design competition for the redesign of the Rideau-Sussex intersection at the entrance to the ByWard Market area, with a report to be presented to the Planning and Housing Committee in the first quarter of 2024. Additionally, $200,000 in one-time funding has been approved for the ByWard Market District Authority transition costs, along with $100,000 for additional initiatives.

The city's efforts to address the concerns of business owners and enhance the appeal of the ByWard Market are crucial steps towards ensuring the area's long-term viability. However, the effectiveness of these measures in mitigating the impact of theft and shoplifting remains to be seen.

Key Takeaways

• Over 50% of ByWard Market and Rideau Street business owners are uncertain about extending leases due to theft and shoplifting.
• Theft and shoplifting incidents cost businesses $1.46 million in 2023, with Rideau Street accounting for $1.36 million.
• 40% of Rideau Street businesses and 21% of ByWard Market businesses experience theft or shoplifting frequently.
• The city's new plan aims to revitalize the ByWard Market with a special tax, street renewal, and public space creation.
• The plan's effectiveness in mitigating theft and shoplifting remains to be seen, but it's a crucial step towards the area's long-term viability.