“It’s a huge blow.”
That’s from Downtown PG Executive Director Chrisie Berry in the aftermath of the Crossroads fire that resulted in $1.8 million dollars in damage according to city officials.
In an interview with Vista Radio, Berry said the restaurant was one of the major spark plugs in revitalizing our downtown core.
“There are only a few patios that are down here and it was very popular. All of our businesses down here have faced challenge after challenge when it comes to the crime that is happening downtown and this is just one more drop in that bucket.”
“Something has to change. I haven’t been at this role for very long but in that five months I have seen a drastic increase in what is going on downtown. Things people are talking about.”
Berry noted certain enhancements are coming for the downtown core to make it a much safer place to venture out such as the one-year security camera pilot program, which was inspired by the success seen in Penticton.
The added technology is expected to go online at a later date.
On Thursday, the Ramada also played host to the Business and Retail Crime Forum hosted by local Conservative MLA’s Kiel Giddens (Prince George-Mackenzie), Rosalyn Bird (PG-Valemount) and Sheldon Clare (Prince George-North Cariboo).
“Prior to that event, I took myself and our President Eoin Foley took the MLA’s through a walk through downtown. Those from out of town can get a sense of what it feels like down here.” added Berry.
The same offer has been made to mayor and council.
On Monday, the Prince George RCMP arrested and charged 57-year-old Richard Titchener with arson causing damage to property, and will remain in custody until his next court appearance.
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