The seasonal vendor area on the Halifax waterfront is moving next spring to a new, vibrant place for high-quality small business, art and entertainment.
Located a few steps south of The Wave between Sackville and Salter streets, along the Halifax Harbourwalk, the 20,000 square feet of public space includes the Sands at Salter, an 8,000 square foot (740 square metre) outdoor event area with seating for more than 250 people and a stage for performances and festivals. Public washrooms, including two accessible washrooms, new seating, lighting and landscaping are also part of the mix.
Small businesses interested in seasonal opportunities can be part of this exciting new location through a request for proposals issued today, Dec. 9, by Waterfront Development Corporation. Vending opportunities include 12 existing buildings and 10 sites for new buildings. Licenses are for five years.
“Our place by the ocean is an important stage for businesses to showcase their products to the world,” said Jennifer Angel, acting president and CEO, Waterfront Development. “The focus is, first, on creating a place where locals want to be, and, then, welcoming visitors to experience authentic Nova Scotia at its best.”
The request for proposals is available on the Nova Scotia Tenders website. One for waterfront marine businesses opportunities is also available. Both close Jan. 17, 2017.
Seasonal businesses are expected to be open by mid-June with a grand opening celebration planned. Signature events for 2017 include RDV 2017 Tall Ships Regatta, TD Halifax Jazz Festival, Halifax International Busker Festival, and Halifax Ribfest.
Kiosks are generally open until October and complement year-round locations including Murphy’s the Cable Wharf, NovaScotian Crystal, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and Bishop’s Landing. Opportunities for seasonal market style vending in the new location will be available this winter.
The existing vendor area is being replaced by the upcoming $200M Queen’s Marque development project. Public engagement sessions helped shape the vision for the new seasonal vendor area.
Popular themes that emerged include a space for local business, artists and musicians; connectivity to the waterfront and downtown core; access to the water; and a place for the community to gather year-round.
More than two million people visit the Halifax waterfront each year. For more information go to www.my-waterfront.ca.
Source: Release