Summary of Issues from the Background Report

The appendix to this report contains a Background Report outlining current conditions and trends along the corridor and a demographic snapshot of the surrounding neighbourhoods. From the Background Report, the following themes are identified:

High Commercial Vacancies

Approximately 25% of the commercial units along the two corridors are vacant. The vacancies can been seen in the mixed use sections of the corridors where residential and commercial uses are intermittent with each other. Many vacant commercial units are units that were added onto the front of single detached dwellings at a time when commercial space was more viable along the corridors. 

Commercial Mix Mainly Consists of Restaurants and Business Services

The commercial uses along the corridors are mainly restaurant or service oriented. Along University Avenue 21% of the commercial units are business service related (accountants, tax services, financial planning, etc.) and 19% are food services. Along Wyandotte Street 34% are restaurants/fast food/cafes, which are mainly located between California Avenue and Campbell Avenue and cater to the University of Windsor student market. Very little retail is present along the corridors, except speciality/ethnic grocers that cater to specific market