Exchange District storefronts to get makeover thanks to funding program

Some historic storefronts in Winnipeg's Exchange District will be getting a facelift thanks to a new funding program unveiled today by civic and provincial officials.

Thirteen properties will have their exterior facades refreshed under the Exchange District Heritage Facade and Storefront Improvement Program, which is a joint initiative of the Manitoba government, City of Winnipeg and CentreVenture, an arm's-length downtown development agency.

In total, the city and province are pitching in $260,000 for the program, which will provide qualified property owners with up to $5,000 to cover professional design consulting fees, as well as match up to $15,000 toward eligible storefront improvements.

"From 10 years ago, you look at the Exchange, now and then. It's because of good work by a lot of people," said Mayor Brian Bowman.

For us, we get to shine a little brighter.- Mandel Hitzer, Deer + Almond chef and owner

"The private sector, not for profit, the province, the city, CentreVenture, I mean, everybody is working really hard to just keep making downtown even better."

CentreVenture chose successful projects from a pool of about 40 applicants.

"We actually have a selection committee that includes not only CentreVenture, but also planners and urban designers from the City of Winnipeg that evaluate them based on contribution to the community, heritage preservation, a number of other criteria," said Angela Mathieson, CentreVenture president and CEO.

Businesses with more than one storefront on a public street may be eligible for up to $30,000.

Deer + Almond

Local eatery Deer + Almond at 85 Princess Street is one of the buildings set for upgrades.

"The energy, not only for myself, but trends down through my staff," said Mandel Hitzer, the restaurant's head chef and owner. 

"They're all excited we are going to have a new little deer and almond on the outside."

Hitzer said he and his staff are proud to be a part of the new generation of businesses trying to revitalize downtown Winnipeg.

"For us, we get to shine a little brighter," said Hitzer. "Cars will drive by, see us. The Exchange is growing rapidly. To be a part of that and to see it evolve is beautiful."

Officials say they expect the program will "fuel an additional $469,000 in private investments in the Exchange District," according to a news release.

"Refreshed buildings in downtown Winnipeg will help attract visitors and stimulate more economic activity in the heart of the city," the release adds.

"Successful businesses create employment opportunities and are the driving force in Manitoba's growing economy."

Five of the 13 properties that qualify for the funding are on McDermot Avenue, while three are on Princess Street and two are on Albert Street. The others are on James Avenue, King Street and the 400 block of Main Street.