This week, Shawn Kearns was wrapping up operations at Greenbriar Market and Refillery on Bowness Road when a water main break occurred, providing a sense of relief due to narrowly avoiding the impact. Kearns mentioned that the store suffered an estimated $30,000 loss in sales during the incident, leading to a decline in customer visits. To mitigate the situation, Kearns and his business partner plan to continue sales at their Crossroads Market location.
Businesses in the affected areas, including parts of Point McKay, West Hillhurst, Parkdale, and Montgomery under a boil-water advisory, are facing a familiar challenge reminiscent of a similar event in 2024. Dealing with the advisory involves additional precautions, such as boiling water before use for various purposes like dishwashing.
The road closures are also causing concerns among owners, apprehensive that customers might be discouraged from visiting. Some establishments, like NOtaBLE The Steakhouse, have utilized social media to reassure customers of their operational status and provide directions for access.
Annie Tran, the owner of Now Nails and Spa, expressed the challenges faced post-break, particularly with the salon’s location on a closed stretch of 16th Avenue N.W., complicating customer accessibility. Additionally, Alberta Health Services stipulate the need to boil water for services like pedicures and manicures during the advisory, impacting operations.
At Abbey’s Creations Ice Cream, co-owner Paul Hopfner noted a sense of déjà vu, grateful that the incident occurred outside peak ice cream season. Despite being able to manage disruptions, the recurring interruptions pose challenges for business sustainability in the Montgomery area.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas urged Calgarians to support affected businesses during the water main break, emphasizing the importance of community assistance. While the city is exploring various avenues to aid businesses, no financial support commitments have been made yet, with the priority on establishing clear timelines for restoration.
Kearns emphasized the need for city support for local businesses, citing the previous lack of assistance during similar events. He hopes for proactive measures this time to aid small businesses affected by the water main break.