Belleville’s downtown back in business

Life was looking a little busier in Belleville Downtown District on Tuesday as Ontario allows businesses to open up some more during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first day brought some visitors to businesses along the streets, but it’s not exactly “business as usual.”

The new rules mean retail stores can welcome customers into the stores, maintaining physical distancing and providing sanitizing.

Chair of  BIA and owner of Kate’s Kitchen, Kathryn Brown, tells Quinte News it’s exciting to be open but there are worries as well.

Tom Lafferty of Lafferty’s Crossings says he’s pleased to be back in the store.

He notes that people can try on clothing in the stores.

Lafferty adds that although it’s great to be back at work, it’s not all good news for businesses, “Unfortunately we’re going to lose a lot of them. Not just at the retail level but the supply level as well.”

Owner of That Special Touch clothing store Darla Miller tells Quinte News she’s optimistic, “I would like to think, after 26 years, that I have a positive attitude. I’m focused on moving forward. There’s no sense in looking back. What’s done is done.”

Brown notes many people are happy to be able to shop in-store not just online.

She says there are many people not comfortable shopping online and the open stores are welcome news for them.