WATCH ABOVE: Edmonton’s 104 Street could be the first in North America to receive Purple Flag accreditation. For some business owners, the possibility of clinching that distinction is a big deal. Jessica Kent explains.
EDMONTON — Edmonton’s 104 Street could be the first area in North America to gain Purple Flag accreditation; a prestigious symbol in the United Kingdom of a safe and vibrant entertainment hub.
“It’ll get people wanting to come down and see what we have to offer in this neighbourhood and downtown Edmonton of course,” said Ed Fong, co-chair of the 104th Street Action Committee.
The Purple Flag program is based in the United Kingdom, with 51 cities there accredited.
“The purple flag is the gold standard of safety and managing night time economies in the UK,” added Fong.
To gain accreditation, the action committee will work with managers in the UK to help 104 Street achieve flag standards.
“They will be providing us guidance and feedback on what we’re doing very well and what needs improving on,” explained Fong. “So they will identify things we need to bring up to speed; we’ll certainly meet those challenges.”
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A number of businesses in the area are already meeting some of the criteria needed, like safety in and around establishments that serve alcohol.
Bars like Mercer Tavern and Kelly’s Pub both have the Best Bar None program in place, a voluntary program holding them to certain safety standards.
READ MORE: 53 Edmonton night spots take annual Best Bar None awards
Area resident and Weekly Barbershop & Boutique owner, Craig Boa, thinks the purple flag will be a step in the right direction in changing the perception of downtown Edmonton.
“If they could get it in place by the time the arena is open it would benefit 104 Street.”
“I think it would help with the presentation of downtown, I think there’s an attitude about downtown safety,” said one frequent 104 Street shopper.
But not all area residents agree. Some think the area speaks for itself and can’t see a flag as an attraction.
“Maybe it would be a comfort for some people, but I don’t feel the need for it personally,” said one resident.
“I feel pretty safe so far, I don’t think the flag would mean much to me,” added another.
“As long as there’s more good businesses and good people moving into the area, more good things and safe things will happen,” said a third.
The next step in gaining the accreditation will be to have business owners, stakeholders and residents in the area on board with the bid.
“It’s about engaging everyone,” said Fong. “Purple flag can only succeed if all stakeholders are willing to engage and contribute and make this a successful project.”
If 104 Street is awarded with the flag, it could be flying as early as the end of the year.
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