Kelowna’s bustling Bernard Avenue has recently welcomed a new initiative called “Meet me on Bernard,” which has been met with enthusiasm by local restaurants.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Downtown Kelowna Association, aims to create a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere on Bernard Avenue by closing off the street to vehicle traffic on weekends. This allows for more outdoor seating and dining options for restaurants, as well as a safer and more enjoyable experience for pedestrians.
According to Mark Burley, the executive director of the Downtown Kelowna Association, the response from restaurants has been overwhelmingly positive. “We’ve had a lot of interest from restaurants wanting to participate in this initiative,” he stated. “It’s a great opportunity for them to expand their outdoor seating and attract more customers.”
The closure of Bernard Avenue to vehicles will take place every Friday at 3 p.m. until Sunday at 11 p.m. until the end of September. This gives restaurants the chance to set up additional outdoor seating and create a more inviting atmosphere for diners.
Local restaurant owners are excited about the potential benefits of “Meet me on Bernard.” “We’re thrilled to be a part of this initiative,” said Sarah Johnson, owner of a popular restaurant on Bernard Avenue. “It’s a great way to bring more foot traffic to the area and showcase our outdoor dining options.”
In addition to providing a boost for local businesses, “Meet me on Bernard” also promotes a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly approach to dining. With fewer cars on the road, there is a decrease in air pollution and noise, creating a more pleasant experience for both diners and restaurant staff.
The Downtown Kelowna Association hopes that “Meet me on Bernard” will become a permanent fixture in the city, with plans to expand the initiative to other streets in the downtown area. “We believe this will have a positive impact on the community and we’re excited to see it grow,” said Burley.
So next time you’re looking for a place to dine in Kelowna, why not meet on Bernard Avenue? With its charming outdoor seating and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
