Niagara Falls Review Article
2019The downtown business improvement area is hailing a potential partnership between the City of Niagara Falls and Ryerson University as "critically needed" and a "generational" opportunity.
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Contact Information
- Address:
Keefer Developments Ltd.
4605 Crysler Avenue. Unit 4
Niagara Falls Ontario Canada
L2E 3V6 - Telephone: 905-353-9555
- Fax: (905) 353-1855
- Commercial Sales and Leasing:
Phil Ritchie - Residential Apartments:
Theresa Cotton
Downtown BIA in 'full support' of Falls-Ryerson partnership
Niagara Falls Review Article
2019The downtown business improvement area is hailing a potential partnership between the City of Niagara Falls and Ryerson University as "critically needed" and a "generational" opportunity.
Falls train station to be redeveloped into 'one-stop shop' for transit
Niagara Falls Review Article
2019The provincial government has committed $1.5 million towards the construction of a multi-modal transit hub in Niagara Falls. Mayor Jim Diodati said the project will redevelop the existing train station on Bridge Street into a
"one-stop shop” for all things transportation, supporting the inter-connectivity of transit, pedestrian and parking with connections to the future GO train terminal...
Niagara Falls, Ryerson innovation hub will help 'build more great companies'
Niagara Falls Review Article
2019Spark Niagara co-founder optimistic after federal funding announcement
Thorold Stone Road extension 'symbolic of things to come' in Niagara Falls: Diodati
Niagara This Week Article
Jan 8, 2016To some, it’s just a stretch of asphalt, but to Mayor Jim Diodati, the extension of Thorold Stone Road represents much more.
Revitalizing Niagara Falls Downtown
Niagara Falls Business Magazine Article
2015Downtown communities are the key ingredient of any great city. Yet, over the years there has been a decline in foot traffic as customers were lured away...
The status quo should be unacceptable: Ritchie
Niagara Falls Review Article
May 9, 2015The Review asked me to share some specifics regarding recent comments I made with respect to poverty, and economic balance in the city of Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls Review moving
Niagara Falls Review Article
November 7, 2014by Ray Spiteri
NIAGARA FALLS – It’s the dawn of a new era for The Niagara Falls Review.
The 135-year-old newspaper is moving to the downtown core after 62 years at 4801 Valley Way.
NIAGARA FALLS – It’s the dawn of a new era for The Niagara Falls Review.
The 135-year-old newspaper is moving to the downtown core after 62 years at 4801 Valley Way.
Seneca Queen Theatre to re-open in Oct.
Niagara Falls Review Article
September 29, 2014by John Law
NIAGARA FALLS – Things are about to pick up at the Seneca Queen Theatre. A film and concert series is planned for the Queen St. venue as part of owner Phil Ritchie's plans to make it a cornerstone of downtown.
NIAGARA FALLS – Things are about to pick up at the Seneca Queen Theatre. A film and concert series is planned for the Queen St. venue as part of owner Phil Ritchie's plans to make it a cornerstone of downtown.
The time is right for Queen Street: Ritchie
Niagara This Week Article
September 10, 2014by Richard Hutton
NIAGARA FALLS – It has taken some time, but the pieces of the Queen Street puzzle are beginning to come together, Phil Ritchie says.
NIAGARA FALLS – It has taken some time, but the pieces of the Queen Street puzzle are beginning to come together, Phil Ritchie says.
Brock interested in downtown Niagara Falls campus
Niagara Falls Review Article
October 11, 2013by Matt Day
NIAGARA FALLS - Brock University is actively looking at bringing a downtown campus to Niagara Falls.Brian Hutchings, the Thorold-based university’s vice-president of administration, confirmed with the Review that city officials and Brock representatives have met to take part in discussions of possibly expanding their International Student Programs.
NIAGARA FALLS - Brock University is actively looking at bringing a downtown campus to Niagara Falls.Brian Hutchings, the Thorold-based university’s vice-president of administration, confirmed with the Review that city officials and Brock representatives have met to take part in discussions of possibly expanding their International Student Programs.
The Bakery
Gay Brothers Bakery Legacy
by James Kershaw
I dare say that every family must have a story that's interesting and cohesive for its members and even to the public as well (if they only knew). Not only a way to understand ourselves and our connections, the study of genealogy is also important for families in order that medical personnel may understand how diseases are passed along the blood line.
I dare say that every family must have a story that's interesting and cohesive for its members and even to the public as well (if they only knew). Not only a way to understand ourselves and our connections, the study of genealogy is also important for families in order that medical personnel may understand how diseases are passed along the blood line.
Health centre takes over former Canadian Tire building
Niagara Falls Review Article
April 3, 2013
JOHN LAW
NIAGARA FALLS – The former Canadian Tire building at the foot of Queen St. will be the new home of he Niagara Falls Community Health Centre. Board members and supporters gathered in the parking lot of the long empty building for the announcement of $3.4 million in funding to get the building ready for its 2015 opening.
Niagara Falls REVIEW
NIAGARA FALLS – The former Canadian Tire building at the foot of Queen St. will be the new home of he Niagara Falls Community Health Centre. Board members and supporters gathered in the parking lot of the long empty building for the announcement of $3.4 million in funding to get the building ready for its 2015 opening.
Business Innovation Zone to help entrepreneurs
Niagara Falls Review Article
March 27, 2013
TONY RICCIUTO
NIAGARA FALLS – To help small companies grow, the city of Niagara Falls has created the Business Innovation Zone, which is going in across the street from city hall at 4321 Queen St.
The city’s Small Business Enterprise Centre, which is now located inside city hall, will also be moving into the new facility.
Niagara Falls REVIEW
NIAGARA FALLS – To help small companies grow, the city of Niagara Falls has created the Business Innovation Zone, which is going in across the street from city hall at 4321 Queen St.
The city’s Small Business Enterprise Centre, which is now located inside city hall, will also be moving into the new facility.
BIA dares you to walk Queen St. alley
Niagara Falls Review Article
March 7, 2013
MATT DAY
NIAGARA FALLS – Go ahead, take a walk through a downtown alleyway at night. The downtown Business Improvement Area isn't just daring you to, they're encouraging it.
That's because they are almost set to officially unveil Daredevil Alley, a walkway on the south side of Queen St. between Ontario Ave. and St. Clair Ave. that features a wall-mounted display of historic facts on some of the more outrageous feats accomplished in Niagara Falls.
Niagara Falls REVIEW
NIAGARA FALLS – Go ahead, take a walk through a downtown alleyway at night. The downtown Business Improvement Area isn't just daring you to, they're encouraging it.
That's because they are almost set to officially unveil Daredevil Alley, a walkway on the south side of Queen St. between Ontario Ave. and St. Clair Ave. that features a wall-mounted display of historic facts on some of the more outrageous feats accomplished in Niagara Falls.
Adding life to downtown
Niagara Falls Review Article
October 31, 2012
TONY RICCIUTIO
NIAGARA FALLS – They are called the Queen St. Village Apartments and Phil Ritchie hopes they will set the new standard and lead the way in downtown residential accommodations.
Even though the 30 apartment units are going into a building that once housed the former Gay Brothers Bakery at 4410 Queen St., everything has been ripped out and tenants will be moving into a modern, new facility that makes good use of the latest in green technology.
Niagara Falls REVIEW
NIAGARA FALLS – They are called the Queen St. Village Apartments and Phil Ritchie hopes they will set the new standard and lead the way in downtown residential accommodations.
Even though the 30 apartment units are going into a building that once housed the former Gay Brothers Bakery at 4410 Queen St., everything has been ripped out and tenants will be moving into a modern, new facility that makes good use of the latest in green technology.
Charging station Improves the environment
Bullet News Niagara Article
October 11, 2012
ANNIE SILVESTER
NIAGARA FALLS – Drivers of electric cars in Niagara Falls will be able to fill up at the new 90- amp charging station at Taps Bar and Grill.
On hand for the announcement were several representatives from Sun Country Highway to demonstrate the new station. Key to making it all happen was Keefer Developments boss Phil Ritchie, whose company owns many downtown properties.
Bullet News Niagara
NIAGARA FALLS – Drivers of electric cars in Niagara Falls will be able to fill up at the new 90- amp charging station at Taps Bar and Grill.
On hand for the announcement were several representatives from Sun Country Highway to demonstrate the new station. Key to making it all happen was Keefer Developments boss Phil Ritchie, whose company owns many downtown properties.
Queen Street Park Grand Opening
Grand Opening - Wednesday, Oct 3, 2012
You are invited to attend the Grand Opening of the Queen Street Park and a ceremony to dedicate a Peace Garden commemorating the War of 1812. It all takes place on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at 6:00pm at the Queen Street Park (next to City Hall). Entertainment has been provided by the Niagara Falls Downtown Board of Management and there will be a jazz performance by Shea D Duo from 4:00-7:00pm. Light snacks and refreshments will also be provided.
This park is a great example of the transformation of what was once a parking area into a welcoming, aesthetic gathering place with shade trees, landscape areas, a water feature and a playground. The park has been designed and built to be fully accessible including the playground and water feature.
The park integrates and connects with the Olympic Recreation Trail which welcomes visitors and residents to walk, run or bike from the Downtown to the Clifton and Fallsview Tourist Districts and to access the many restaurants and shopping stores on Queen Street. City staff and the Niagara Falls Downtown Board of Management have worked closely over the past many years to revitalize the streetscape and add the Downtown Park to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.
This park is a great example of the transformation of what was once a parking area into a welcoming, aesthetic gathering place with shade trees, landscape areas, a water feature and a playground. The park has been designed and built to be fully accessible including the playground and water feature.
The park integrates and connects with the Olympic Recreation Trail which welcomes visitors and residents to walk, run or bike from the Downtown to the Clifton and Fallsview Tourist Districts and to access the many restaurants and shopping stores on Queen Street. City staff and the Niagara Falls Downtown Board of Management have worked closely over the past many years to revitalize the streetscape and add the Downtown Park to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Downtown BIA bringing new life, investments to the Queen Street district in Niagara Falls
The Business Link Niagara Article
July, 2012
SCOTT LESLIE
NIAGARA FALLS – For many generations of Niagara Falls residents, Queen Street was always the place to be—whether it was trying out scout uniforms in the basement of Rosberg’s, buying a handful of penny candy at Gold’s Variety or catching a lazy matinee at the Seneca Theatre or the Capitol.
The Business Link Niagara
NIAGARA FALLS – For many generations of Niagara Falls residents, Queen Street was always the place to be—whether it was trying out scout uniforms in the basement of Rosberg’s, buying a handful of penny candy at Gold’s Variety or catching a lazy matinee at the Seneca Theatre or the Capitol.
Paris Crepes Bistro to re-open next month
Niagara Falls Review Article
July 13, 2012
ALISON LANLEY
NIAGARA FALLS – Paris Crepes Bistro, which closed abruptly in May despite being heralded as one of Queen Street's success stories, is set to re-open next month under a new name.Thierry Clement, one of the original owners of the popular Parisian-style eatery which opened in 2009, said Thursday the Paris Crepes Cafe will open in early August.
Niagara Falls REVIEW
NIAGARA FALLS – Paris Crepes Bistro, which closed abruptly in May despite being heralded as one of Queen Street's success stories, is set to re-open next month under a new name.Thierry Clement, one of the original owners of the popular Parisian-style eatery which opened in 2009, said Thursday the Paris Crepes Cafe will open in early August.
New Focus For Downtown Falls
St. Catharines Standard Article
March 31, 2012
DAN DAKIN
NIAGARA FALLS – Phil Ritchie has a new vision for downtown.
QMI Agency Niagara Falls
NIAGARA FALLS – Phil Ritchie has a new vision for downtown.
Never mind bringing in tourists. Forget landing a big-box store or a major retailer. Don't gamble on a theatre district.
The head of Keefer Developments Limited, which just bought 40 commercial properties and 60 residential units from Historic Niagara Developments Inc., said his primary focus is on bringing new residents to the Queen St. area.
KDL Acquires HNDI
On March 26 2012, Keefer Developments Ltd. (KDL) successfully completed the acquisition of the real estate portfolio formerly known as Historic Niagara Development Inc. The portfolio including more than 40 sites holds approximately 200,000 sq. feet of retail and office space along with 60 living units.
Building upon the strong foundations put in place by the former ownership, KDL intends to make several changes to better connect the Queen St. District to the residents of Niagara Falls and the greater Niagara Region at large. We intend to become a "downtown for locals”, KDL will act as a catalyst to help repatriate the downtown into the hearts and minds of the Niagara Falls community.
Working with a strong local team of advisors with financial support provided by the Royal Bank of Canada we believe the timing is right to complete this goal. "We are grateful to RBC for stepping up to be the primary funder of this important project taking place literally on their Queen St. branch doorstep. They believe in the importance of downtowns and supporting this renewal” states Phil Ritchie, President of KDL.
Our historic downtown cores have a role to play in the transformation of Niagara. These precious spaces offer rich history, and a sense of place that define communities and are part of the fabric that makes us who we are as Niagarans. Our downtowns are walkable, filled with unique architecture, and are scaled to make us feel comfortable as we interact with the environment. All of our downtowns offer charm and significant potential. Interesting shopping dining and entertainment opportunities can be found across Niagara.. In our view, downtown Niagara will return to be a focus of local community life. While big box developments will continue to dominate retail, people are yearning for a more intimate and unique retail experience that is so well accommodated in a downtown environment.
We IMAGINE a vibrant locally focused downtown, the heart of the Niagara Falls community, a place where tourists will seek to mix with our local residents drawn by our authenticity, great value, and service.
We BELIEVE our goal will be accomplished following a four point plan;
- Renovate and add residential development.
- We intend to renovate and add 60 new living units to the downtown within the next six months
- Sell a number of buildings to "hands on" entrepreneurs to broaden the diversity of ownership and infuse new ideas and energy
- Lease retail and office spaces at affordable rates dramatically reducing current vacancies
- Work collaboratively with the BIA, City, and other stakeholders to foster new ideas and action to deal with issues that face all downtowns, such as parking, promotion, signage, and property standards enforcement.
The Queen St. district ...also known as "the Q" is undergoing a massive revitalization. There are numerous new developments underway such as;
- The opening of successful niche retail and dining experiences such as; Paris Crepes, Taps Brewery, and Cupolo's
- Ongoing municipal infrastructure investments to enhance public areas such as; walkways, street music, public art, gateway signage, green spaces, and distinctive arches at key Queen St. intersections
- Improved transit connections to the immediate area starting in June 2012 with the addition of the People Mover system connecting Queen St. to Clifton hill, the Great Wolf Lodge and Fallsview areas
We believe that downtown Niagara Falls does have extraordinary momentum. We also happen to have a small advantage that would be the envy of any downtown... international name recognition, and about 10 million visitors per year located just a couple of kilometres up the street.
Imagine and Believe.
