Businesses at Winnipeg Beach are taking a hit as bad weather slows tourism in the town. Business owners say they’ve noticed a significant decline in sales this year.
“I don't know if it's people not coming out to the lake or if people are here and just staying in, you know, because it's been so rainy and miserable out,” said James Hollingworth, who manages Dairy Bee Ice Cream.
Winnipeg Beach Mayor Tony Pimentel said tourism dropped between 25 to 35 percent this season. He said the lakefront town relies on tourists in the busy summer months, and local businesses take a big hit when tourism falls.
“The owners end up working longer hours to cut down on their costs and the summer employment is reduced for summer students who live and work in the area,” said Pimentel.
On Monday, a storm battered the town’s famous boardwalk. Strong winds and high water levels sent waves crashing over the concrete barrier separating the water from the boardwalk. Pimentel said the town may have to dismantle parts of the boardwalk if the high water levels and strong winds continue this summer.
Winnipeg Beach’s annual Boardwalk Days are this weekend and, luckily for businesses, the forecast looks clear and sunny.
