Reopenings in the Glebe

By Trevor Greenway

It may have been months since you’ve had your hair cut or your teeth cleaned, eaten at a restaurant, bought a fresh pair of shoes or a new outfit.

If that’s you, then you’ll be happy to know that Glebe merchants have been working hard over the past few months to reopen safely and begin serving the patrons they love so much. With “open” signs hanging from nearly every business, that familiar neighbourhood vibe is slowly starting to return.

We know just how tough the last few months have been on the entire community – from the businesses, their families and their employees to their loyal customers who support the community day in and day out. Despite the challenges, many of our merchants have persevered, weathered the storm and survived so far. Much of that is thanks to a supportive community that has purchased gift cards, made online purchases and ordered take-out meals to help them stay afloat. Glebites truly do live by the “shop local” mentality. Support for local businesses is more important than ever as we enter the next period of economic recovery.

To help give our businesses a boost while also providing valuable information for residents and shoppers, we launched a sector-specific blog series on our website at intheglebe.ca. It highlights retail shops, restaurants and services that have reopened in the neighbourhood.

Get a haircut, reserve a spot for dinner at your favourite restaurant, go to the gym or plan to redecorate the house. Strap on a pair of new sneakers and find new ways of staying in shape. All this and more is captured in the blog series.

“It has been so much fun to have customers coming back into the stores, talking about their experiences and how they are finding new ways to stay fit and active,” said Phil Marsh, regional manager of Running Room, who reopened his Bank Street shop in early June. “Folks are always welcome to call or drop into any Running Room location to ask questions, get advice and, of course, you can buy shoes too.”

Metro Music owner Danielle Sabourin is happy to see all her guitar-toting customers again after a long spring hiatus. The shop is also celebrating 60 years in the neighbourhood this year.

“April 1 the shop turned 60,” said Sabourin. “We are so grateful to all our customers who have made this possible. Huge thanks to all of you.”

The BIA’s new Reopening in the Glebe blog series launched in the first week of June and will continue throughout the summer with feature articles on cafés, food shops, professional services and more.

Please remember that wearing a mask is now mandatory in all public indoor spaces by order of Ottawa Public Health. Please help to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by respecting the mask bylaw, physical distancing, washing your hands often and staying home when sick. Businesses appreciate your patience as they strive to keep everyone safe.

Thanks to everyone who has supported Glebe businesses during these difficult times. We’re all in this together, and we’ve made it this far because of your continued support.

Trevor Greenway is communications and membership officer for the Glebe BIA (Business Improvement Area).