Downtown Essex evolves from 'sad' place, to 'revitalizing' hub

Four days after hitting the market, a storefront property in downtown Essex quickly sold. That's just one sign manyin the community say points to a revitalization of the core.

Eight years ago, Mary-Anne Bjorkmandescribed Essex Centre as being "sad" and full of vacancies.

Today, that's a very different story.

"It's vibrant. It's coming along nicely," Bjorkman said. "The foot traffic we've seen increase."

As a way to prepare for retirement, BjorkmanIs selling one of two of her downtown women's boutiques Golden Girls Fashions. It closesSeptember 29.

At the same time, there's a lotof development going on. Schinkels' Meat Marketis expandingdown the street,into an old party store that's been sitting empty for a while.

And a mystery tenant is moving into theold Grand Central Tavern, that's also been vacant for some time. It's expected to open in December.

All of this growth is being linked to the town's Community Improvement Plan.

"It really improves the overall look of the downtown and it really contributes to the main street revitalization," saidEconomic Development OfficerNelsonSilveira.

The town offers up to $12,000 for businesses to do facade improvements and those shops must match that money dollar for dollar. There are also grantsto help cover the cost of patio expansions, accessible entrances, landscaping and signage.

The Essex Business Improvement Association saidseven businesses have opened or moved to Essex Centre and two have closed since January.

"Working toward a vibrant downtown that's sustainable with businesses that are going to stay here for a long time that's really what's important to us," saidSilveira.