By: Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
The Belle River Business Improvement Area (BIA) is laying the groundwork for a strong and sustainable future, with 2026 shaping up to be a key year for growth, revitalization and community engagement. According to BIA Chair Sarah Regan, the organization’s focus remains firmly on supporting local businesses while positioning Belle River as a year-round destination for shopping, dining, recreation and tourism.
“Our long-term vision is to see Belle River thrive,” Regan said. “That means working together through collaboration, promotion and strong local leadership to support the businesses that make our community unique.”
A major priority for the BIA is encouraging greater participation in the Community Improvement Plan (CIP), which offers funding to help businesses enhance storefronts and improve the overall streetscape. Two local businesses—Tru Realty and Home Hardware—have already taken advantage of the program, using the funding to complete exterior improvements that have added new visual appeal to the main street.
“These projects show the real potential of the CIP,” Regan said. “They’ve made a noticeable difference and we’re excited to see more businesses explore how the program can support their own improvement plans.”
Supporting businesses on a day-to-day basis continues to be central to the BIA’s role. Through a wide range of community events, including street festivals and themed shopping nights, the organization works to increase foot traffic and strengthen connections between businesses and the broader community. Beautification efforts such as planters, benches and seasonal décor help create a welcoming environment, while marketing initiatives—including digital campaigns, print advertising and business spotlights—promote local businesses and raise awareness.
The BIA also places a strong emphasis on connection and collaboration. Networking nights, mixers and online engagement through the BIA’s Facebook group provide opportunities for business owners to share ideas, build relationships and help shape future initiatives.
Recent visualization work completed by Scelta has further strengthened revitalization efforts by helping business and property owners better understand what CIP-supported improvements could look like. The visuals, unveiled at the BIA’s annual general meeting, sparked positive feedback and new conversations about reinvestment and renewal.
“Being able to actually see the possibilities has been a game changer,” Regan said. “It’s helped move discussions forward in a really meaningful way.”
Looking ahead, the BIA hopes to see a more cohesive and modern look along Belle River’s main street, with improved signage, refreshed façades and enhanced landscaping contributing to a stronger sense of place. Regan also envisions more activated public spaces where people can comfortably gather, sit and enjoy the community.
For business owners who may be hesitant to get involved or unsure about accessing available programs, Regan emphasized that support is readily available.
“This is an exciting time for our business community,” she said. “There’s grant funding, application assistance and a strong commitment from both the BIA Board and the Municipality. We’re here to help and we want to work together toward shared success.”
Regan, who has lived in Belle River for the past five years, brings both professional experience and community passion to her role. She works as a Community Manager with Libro Credit Union and has served on the Belle River BIA Board for three years before stepping into the role of Chair earlier this year.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to revitalize our community while shining a spotlight on the incredible businesses we already have,” she said. “Seeing our main street transform as businesses grow, invest and collaborate will be incredibly rewarding.”
The ultimate goal, Regan said, is to create a vibrant downtown core that residents and visitors alike choose as a place to shop, dine, access services and spend time together—today and well into the future.