Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Tuesday marks the day Canadians returning from a trip to the US less than 3 days in length won't need a PCR test to cross the border.
Tourism and shopping center leaders on this side of the border are upbeat about the news and say the timing couldn't be better.
John Percy of Destination Niagara says that PCR testing requirement was the last big obstacle he wanted to see removal. "That removal opens up the floodgates we know keeps building. It's like pushing back a crowd on Black Friday. The timing couldn't be more apropos or perfect," says Percy.
"Here on November 30th before the major shopping weeks prior to the holiday season. It's welcome news to Niagara County, especially with Fashion Outlets."
Patrick Kaler agrees about the timing. "Typically, we welcome 35 to 45 percent of our overall visitation on an annual basis from Canada, so to have the border opened and less of the restrictions will be very good for us as we approach the end of the year," says Kaler.
"This time of year with holiday shopping, the Sabres playing, and Hamilton at Shea's, it's a great opportunity to bring those Canadians back to our community."
Both Kaler and Percy tell WBEN the border closure has been costly across the board.
"Over the last 20 months, we estimate we've lost $1 billion in economic impact from our Canadian friends," says Kaler. He says it will be a while before that is replenished.
Percy says the border closure has been costly to Niagara County. "In 2019, Visa reported Canadians brought $59 million," says Percy. "If you think of all other forms of payment, even their own Canadian debit cards, I would estimate the loss at more than $100 million for goods purchased in Niagara County."
Percy and Kaler say social media efforts will also be underway to help stores.
Walden Galleria issued this statement to WBEN for this story: "This is good news. Simply put, the policy change is another encouraging development as we emerge from the pandemic and traffic continues to rebound. We're confident that this will allow for additional day-trips to the center similar to what we experienced pre-COVID. In the meantime, we will continue to concentrate on offering an attractive array of retailers and experiences, along with a comfortable and safe environment for our visitors."
