Work continues on the planned revitalization of downtown Petrolia and Forest.
The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) helped the towns conduct public surveys last year and the results have now been compiled into reports.
Coordinator Leena Bourne tells Sarnia News Today that each report revealed interesting information.
She said business owners, residents and visitors in Petrolia expressed the desire for more shopping and dining opportunities.
"They're really wanting to see some businesses open a little bit later, we heard that from both the residents and the tourists," said Bourne. "We know Petrolia has a large tourist industry with the Victoria Playhouse and other cultural amenities there."
Upgrades to downtown facades have also been requested.
Talented artists are currently being sought to create murals in Petrolia as part of the revitalization.
In Forest, the community wants a more accessible way to get information, vacant spaces filled and green spaces upgraded.
"In downtown Forest, what we saw was a need for more diverse small businesses. They want more shopping options, they want more food options," she said.
The lack of accessible entryways are a concern in both towns.
The report for downtown Petrolia can be found here.
The report for downtown Forest can be found here.