Shawn Kearns was wrapping up operations at Greenbriar Market and Refillery on Bowness Road when a water main break occurred this week, providing a sense of relief due to the fortunate timing. Kearns mentioned that the store faced a significant loss of around $30,000 in sales during the 2024 water main break, resulting from reduced customer footfall. To mitigate the impact, Kearns and his business partner will continue operations at their Crossroads Market outlet.
Businesses in affected areas, including parts of Point McKay, West Hillhurst, Parkdale, and Montgomery, are once again grappling with challenges reminiscent of the 2024 situation. They are required to adhere to additional precautions, such as boiling water before consumption or usage for activities like dishwashing. Concerns also arise regarding road closures potentially deterring customers from visiting establishments.
Notably, NOtaBLE The Steakhouse took to social media to reassure patrons of their New Year’s Eve availability, offering directions for easy access. Meanwhile, Annie Tran, owner of Now Nails and Spa, expressed concerns about serving customers due to the closure of 16th Avenue N.W., which restricts access. Additionally, Alberta Health Services mandates boiling water before using it for pedicure basins and manicure soaks during the boil-water advisory.
At Abbey’s Creations Ice Cream, co-owner Paul Hopfner faced a sense of déjà vu, thankful that the incident occurred outside the peak ice cream season. However, he highlighted the disruptive impact on the business, stressing the challenges such interruptions pose and the potential risk of driving some businesses in Montgomery out of operation.
During the city’s update on the water main break, Mayor Jeromy Farkas urged Calgarians to support affected businesses, emphasizing the community’s crucial role in assisting local establishments. While the city explores various avenues to aid businesses, including providing clear timelines for normalization, no financial support commitments have been made as of now.
Kearns, even though no longer operating in the area, hopes for city support for impacted business owners, citing the need for assistance after feeling neglected during the previous water main break.
