Edmonton city council expands Alberta avenue business improvement area
Posted December 12, 2024 7:56 pm.
Last Updated December 12, 2024 7:58 pm.
A few blocks off Alberta avenue in Edmonton’s north side is expected to experience improvements as more city tax dollars are being offered to help renovate the area.
Ten businesses, along 114 ave, will have access to the city’s grants and support programs, along with better street cleaning and removal of snow and ice.
One such business is a French bakery called La French Taste, the owner Anthony Cucchiara, originally from France, brings his experience with French baking to the Alberta avenue community.
“A lot of things can go on with Alberta avenue, so that’s why we wanted to be a part of it. For us, it’s important to be in the community,” said Cucchiara.
The city of Edmonton is voting to expand the neighbourhood’s business improvement area, meaning he will benefit from having more resources to make his store, La French Taste more appealing.
Pat Taylor a longtime resident who has lived in the area for 46 years, says she loves seeing the changes gradually unfold.
“For me, to see the changes, that’s a really good sign to see the community is investing and there’s new things happening,” said Taylor.
La French Taste opened in the Alberta avenue community just a year ago.
Now that they’ve joined the newly expanded Alberta avenue business improvement area, they will focus on marketing and becoming more accessible, starting with a ramp to welcome more people through the front door.
“We’re a community of doers. Everybody is doing their best to improve the area, and we have an amazing community. Everybody is willing to lend a hand and support each other,” said Estrada.
The city provides grants to businesses to refresh their building.
Cucchiara hopes a new paint job and increased presence will make the difference in this neighbourhood.
