‘Finally getting back to normal’: As protests dwindle in the Beltline, businesses see increase in patrons

It’s been a few weeks since protests that took over Calgary’s Beltline every weekend have left the area, and by all accounts, business along 17 Avenue southwest has picked back up as a result.

“It’s great to see all of the businesses get back to vibrancy on 17th,” said Ernie Tsu, president of the Alberta Hospitality Association.

He says not having the protests anymore has given a boost to all businesses along the popular avenue.

“Not having the protests has been crucial to not just restaurants but every small business on 17th Avenue that were affected. Sales were affected during those protests and now it just feels like everyone is finally getting back to normal.”

Tsu says there’s been a massive increase in walk-in traffic in the area once again.

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Presotea barista Megan said when the protests were happening on Saturdays, foot traffic would be slow.

“The protest would drive away customers because it’s such a big thing and people just end up not coming into our store. I don’t know if it’s just because they’re just focused on that or people just don’t come onto 17th when that’s happening.”

Garcia says since the demonstrations have moved locations, they are seeing more people walking in.

“Since the protests aren’t happening anymore, there’s a lot more traffic. Especially the younger people, a lot of them are walking on 17th now and a lot of our customers are students or young adults. So now that they are not protesting as much, there’s definitely a lot more foot traffic for sure.”

Tsu says retail stores and hair salons especially are benefitting from the return to normalcy on the popular strip.

“They’re kind of right back on track being able to book at 100 per cent with guests knowing they can get to their hair salons and not have to be cut off by, you know, any lanes of traffic being cut off or arteries.”