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While proud of its history Maple Ridge is a city that embraces innovation and modern practices to assist local businesses to flourish while planning for the future to enhance the lifestyle of its residents. With a population of more than 82,000, Maple Ridge has grown 8.2 per cent since 2001. That exceeds...
Incorporated in 1874, Maple Ridge is one of the oldest municipalities in B.C. The city boasts a walkable, historic downtown. Cafes, bakeries and attractions such as an artisanal cheese producer welcome both tourists and locals.
While proud of its history Maple Ridge is a city that embraces innovation and modern practices to assist local businesses to flourish while planning for the future to enhance the lifestyle of its residents.
With a population of more than 82,000, Maple Ridge has grown 8.2 per cent since 2001. That exceeds the 6.5-per-cent growth rate of Metro Vancouver in the same period. At the same time, housing prices in Maple Ridge are at about half the benchmark medium price for Metro Vancouver.
A 45-minute drive separates downtown Vancouver from Maple Ridge. People commuting to the city and visitors looking to enjoy Maple Ridges’ natural beauty and historic features have benefitted from the removal of bridge tolls.
“We have some businesses that are very unique, that provide that one-of-a-kind experience,” says Lino Siracusa, Manager of Economic Development.
“The real strength of the community is the entrepreneurship that is here as people are starting up their own businesses—whether in food and retail sector or technology.”
About one-third of business licences in Maple Ridge are for home-based endeavours, says Siracusa. Acknowledging the trend in communications and technology, the local city council plans to modernize bylaws to make it easier for home business to operate and grow.
“Once it is approved, it will be the most progressive home occupation bylaw in the province,” says Siracusa. “We want to position our community as being the most friendly community for home-based business.”
Nestled between the Fraser River and Golden Ears Mountain, Maple Ridge residents can experience nature within minutes of their home. To accommodate a growing population, the city is looking to refurbish existing recreational centres and build new facilities.
“All of these amenities will add to that livability, which will encourage more business start-ups, expansions and relocations to our community,” says Siracusa.