The Stony Plain Road Business Association is fighting back against the economic toll of road construction by bringing live music to the streets. The initiative, called Music in the Park, aims to draw customers to local businesses that have seen a significant drop in foot traffic due to prolonged construction work.
Construction challenges for local businesses
Road construction along Stony Plain Road has been ongoing for several months, causing detours, reduced parking, and noise that have deterred customers. Many small business owners report a decline in sales, with some estimating losses of up to 30% compared to the same period last year. The construction is part of a city infrastructure upgrade project intended to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety, but the short-term disruption has been severe for merchants.
“We’ve had customers tell us they avoid the area because of the construction,” said Sarah Mitchell, owner of a local café. “We needed a way to remind people that we’re still open and worth the trip.”
Music in the Park brings vibrancy
The association launched Music in the Park events every Friday evening, featuring local bands and performers in a small park adjacent to the main commercial strip. The events include food vendors, children’s activities, and seating areas, creating a festive atmosphere that has attracted both regulars and newcomers. According to the association, attendance has ranged from 200 to 400 people per event, providing a much-needed boost to nearby businesses.
“The music has been a game-changer,” said association president Mark Thompson. “It’s transformed the mood of the street and brought people back. We’ve seen a noticeable increase in sales on event nights.”
Community and city support
The initiative has received support from the City of Edmonton, which provided permits and some funding for the events. City councillor Anne Stevenson praised the effort, stating that it demonstrates the resilience and creativity of the local business community. “We recognize the challenges construction poses, and we’re committed to helping businesses weather the disruption,” she said.
Local residents have also embraced the events. “It’s wonderful to see the street come alive,” said resident James Wong. “The music makes the construction noise fade into the background.”
Looking ahead
The construction is expected to continue until late 2026, but the association plans to keep Music in the Park running throughout the summer and potentially expand it to other days. The goal is to maintain customer loyalty and ensure that businesses survive the construction period. “We’re in it for the long haul,” Thompson added. “Music is our way of saying we’re still here, and we’re not going anywhere.”
