With a four-month closure of Main Street and Broadway in Vancouver looming, the Mount Pleasant Business Improvement Association (MPBIA) is calling for urgent dialogue with Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth to address the challenges faced by local businesses during the ongoing construction of the Broadway Subway line.
Neil Wyles, the executive director of MPBIA, emphasized the need for concrete mitigation plans rather than mere apologies from the provincial government. Businesses are struggling to stay afloat amid significant revenue losses, exacerbated by the lack of financial assistance.
Wyles criticized the government’s stance of providing no compensation for short-term business disruptions, citing the detrimental impact on the livelihoods of many small businesses. Despite being the backbone of British Columbia’s economy, these businesses are facing imminent closure without adequate support.
Expressing frustration with the lack of attention from policymakers, Wyles urged for immediate action to prevent further business closures. He highlighted the importance of face-to-face discussions to convey the severity of the situation and the urgent need for assistance.
The ongoing delays and budget overruns of the Broadway Subway project have added to the challenges faced by businesses in the area. With completion expected in 2027, the subway extension aims to improve transit accessibility and alleviate traffic congestion along the Broadway corridor.