With more than 400 thousand square feet, Owen Sound's downtown core has the largest concentration of commercial floor space in Grey and Bruce Counties.

The city recently reaffirmed its commitment to a vibrant downtown core through the "Big Dig". This monumental refurbishment project included a complete replacement of all underground services and also resulted in a complete renovation of the downtown streetscape.

Downtown Facts:

• The downtown core represents approximately 32% of the available retail space in Owen Sound, with a vacancy rate of only 6% in 2002.
• Downtown Owen Sound contains a broad range of goods and services, from financial institutions and retail shops to restaurants and pharmacies. City Hall is located here, too.
• To foster the historic ambience of the downtown core, the municipal Façade Restoration Program assists downtown property owners with grants to restore original façades and historical architecture.
• The Owen Sound Community Improvement Plan also provides incentives for developers looking to invest in development in the inner harbour.
• Owen Sound has a strong Downtown Improvement Area - DIA.