By D. W. G. Kalani Tharanga, JadeTimes News
Economic Potential of All Night Venues
Frank Sinatra famously sang about “a city that never sleeps,” but he likely didn't consider the economic advantages of a bustling nightlife. Increasingly, cities worldwide are recognizing the potential of a vibrant night time economy. Around 100 cities now have a “night mayor” or “night tsar” to foster this growth. However, many cities, including London, Sydney, and New York, still do not permit bars and nightclubs to remain open and serve alcohol 24 hours a day. Later this year, Montreal is set to join the ranks of cities like Berlin and Tokyo, with plans to introduce a 24 hour nightlife district in the city center.
Currently, Montreal's bars and clubs must close by 3 a.m. City officials believe that extending operating hours throughout the night will generate hundreds of millions of dollars in additional revenue. The estimated annual financial value of Montreal’s nightlife was C$2.25 billion in 2022, with C$121 million in taxes going to the government. Ericka Alneus, the city councillor behind the 24 hour plan, sees this as an opportunity for substantial economic growth and cultural enhancement. However, some residents express concerns about the adequacy of security and public transportation to support the extended hours. For instance, Sergio Da Silva, owner of Turbo Haus Club, argues that without 24 hour public transport and additional security, the plan might face practical challenges.
Cultural Impact and Safety Considerations
Montreal’s move towards 24 hour nightlife is not just about economic gains; it's also aimed at bolstering the city’s cultural scene. As Ericka Alneus highlights, the diverse venues and performances during nighttime hours deserve greater attention, not only for economic growth but also for the cultural identity of Montreal. The experience of other cities with night mayors, such as Amsterdam, provides valuable insights. Since appointing its first night mayor in 2012, Amsterdam has seen significant reductions in alcohol related violence and nuisance reports, proving that well managed nightlife can lead to safer environments.
Critics of Montreal’s 24 hour plan, like Sergio Da Silva, argue that the infrastructure is not yet ready to support all night operations. Issues such as the lack of round the clock public transport and high living costs could hinder the success of the initiative. Conversely, Michelle Lavellee, owner of L’ile Noir, believes extended hours could reduce peak time problems and improve safety by staggering closing times. This perspective is shared by Alneus, who suggests that spreading out closing times will alleviate pressure on security forces and create a safer nightlife environment.
As Montreal prepares to launch its 24 hour nightlife later this autumn, city officials remain optimistic. They aim to set a precedent and enhance the city's economic and cultural landscape. By embracing a vibrant night time economy, Montreal hopes to attract more tourists, foster local talent, and reinforce its cultural significance, ensuring that the city not only never sleeps but thrives around the clock.
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