Business Survey Summary

Located in the centre of Nanaimo's Downtown commercial core, the current and future uses of Diana Krall Plaza (DKP) are deeply connected to the broader Downtown Nanaimo business community. A brief survey was sent to businesses in Downtown Nanaimo in early February 2020 to understand the strengths and opportunities of being located in Downtown Nanaimo and DKP’s role in the greater Downtown ecosystems. A total of 22 responses were collected, representing a range of businesses located in Downtown's commercial core.

A Vibrant Downtown

When asked what the key advantages of being located Downtown are, respondents said:

Nanaimo Tourism

90% of respondents consider DKP to be an important or very important visitor destination for downtown Nanaimo.

w

Downtown Challenges

When asked what the key issues of being located Downtown are, respondents said:

A more Vibrant
Diana Krall Plaza

When asked how to make DKP more vibrant, respondents suggested:

 

  • Better space programming:
    • Car-free days along Commercial St.
    • Space for workshops
    • Outdoor stage
    • Outdoor movies
    • Coffee shops
    • Markets
    • Covered areas for year-round usage
    • Food trucks
    • Seating
  • Monuments/public art/stories
  • Greenspace
  • Arts and culture event space:
    • Seasonal events
  • Defined spaces with clear functions
  • #Instagrammable
  • Brand Strategy 80% 80%
  • Internet Marketing 60% 60%
  • App Development 50% 50%
  • Customer Happiness 90% 90%