The Downtown Chatham Centre has big plans for downtown Chatham and is pushing for change to stimulate the local economy.
Manager of Leasing and Special Events at DCC Regina Stockus told Blackburn News the vision is to close a small section of King Street and create a promenade or plaza, along with pedestrian-friendly spaces with outdoor cafes in the summer and perhaps an ice skating rink in the winter.
However, she fears municipal politicians are afraid of the liability and councillors may have other political and personal agendas to worry about.
Stockus said promenades are very popular in Europe and this could be tested on a small scale from Fifth Street to William Street to see if it gains momentum in Chatham. She said a downtown promenade could bring psychological benefits and lift the area's psyche.
Stockus said the mall's owner is committed to the community and wants to help resurrect the downtown core.
"I think this is the right time," said Stockus. "Why can't we do this. Let's get the fire burning."
She added the centre of the city needs a hub for people to gather safely while social distancing after COVID-19.
"We need a place like that. It works in other countries," she added.
Stockus said she sent councillors the proposal a week ago but so far has received little to no feedback about it. She said the silence may be motivated by the fear factor and politics.
She said with so many stores closing, the downtown area looks deserted and it's not a good look for such a charming and historic city like Chatham.
"We believe that if we do nothing, nothing will happen and the situation will worsen. Thus we believe a more aggressive alternate should be considered," she said.
The proposal has a timeline of two years from the introduction to the opening but there is no price tag. Stockus has written local MPP Rick Nicholls, MP Dave Epp, and Premier Doug Ford inquiring about funding.