#LoveLocal ‘Bring people downtown’: Caledon mulls using old fire hall in Bolton as community hub

Locally owned and operated businesses are the social, cultural and economic heart of a community. Unfortunately, this past year has left many unsure if they can continue. In this weeklong series, we look at the vital role local businesses play in our communities, the financial pressure they are under due to COVID-19, and what we can do to help them survive.

Over the years, the core of Bolton has been a bustling place for the community to gather and a vibrant place for business.

But in the last two decades, the number of empty storefronts has increased.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation in the downtown was dire.

The town hired MDB Insight Inc. to come up with a plan for the revitalization of the downtown area.

It was…