BLOX BIA Expansion: A New Era For Beltline and Sunalta

Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) play a crucial role in enhancing commercial districts, fostering local economic growth, and creating vibrant, welcoming spaces for businesses and residents alike. As BLOX embarks on its upcoming proposed expansion, this marks a significant opportunity for the Beltline and Sunalta neighbourhoods to benefit from a more unified pool of resources to strategically approach enhancing the zone. 

High Park, an Urban Rooftop in Calgary's Beltline.

What is a BIA?

A Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an officially designated district where local businesses collaborate to enhance the area’s economic vitality, safety, and appeal. 

Here’s how it works:

• Businesses within the BIA boundaries pay a levy (a mandatory tax), collected by the city and reinvested into the district.

• The BIA uses these funds to improve streetscapes, enhance public safety, organise events, and promote local businesses. 

• They work closely with the city to address issues like cleanliness, infrastructure, and community engagement. 

The goal? To create a thriving, attractive destination that benefits businesses, residents, and visitors alike. 

BLOX BIA: Expanding beyond the Beltline

BLOX BIA Expansion Proposal -- The map displays the BLOX BIA's current boundaries in magenta and the proposed expansion in purple, highlighting the district's planned growth.

Our BIA is growing! Once focused solely on the  Beltline, we are proposing an expansion to include Sunalta, bringing new opportunities for businesses in both neighbourhoods. This expansion means Sunalta businesses will benefit from the same resources, advocacy, and marketing efforts that have strengthened Beltline’s commercial community.

What This Means for Local Businesses

With the proposed expansion of BLOX BIA, businesses across both areas will see:

• Stronger Representation – More businesses will have a unified voice when working with the City of Calgary, ensuring policies and developments support local economic growth. 

• Increased Marketing & Promotions – Businesses will gain more visibility through BIA-led campaigns, social media features, and events designed to attract more customers. 

• Better Streets & Public Spaces – More resources will go into beautification projects, improved lighting, street cleaning, and wayfinding signage, creating a safer and more welcoming commercial district. 

• Expanded Community Events – Sunalta will now benefit from successful BIA programming, driving more foot traffic to local businesses building a stronger sense of community. 

Why This Expansion Matters

Sunalta is a neighbourhood on the rise – home to a mix of long-standing businesses, startups and growing residential developments. By becoming part of BLOX BIA, Sunalta businesses will gain proven strategic support that have already boosted the Beltline’s business landscape. 

This expansion also builds a stronger connection between the two communities. While Beltline is known for its high-density, mixed-use environment with a thriving nightlife and arts scene, Sunalta brings a unique character with its independent businesses, transit connections, and grassroots community initiatives. Together, they create a more cohesive and dynamic business corridor. 

A New Chapter for Local Businesses

This isn’t just about growth – it’s about strengthening the local economy. By uniting the Beltline and Sunalta, BLOX BIA is ensuring that businesses in both neighbourhoods have the support, visibility, and advocacy they need to thrive. 

The future of Calgary’s business community is brighter than ever –  let’s build it together!