The downtown Comox Business in Action Association is looking back on a year marked by growth, creativity, and strong community support.

As 2026 gets underway, the Comox BIA says 2025 was defined by resilience and collaboration, even as the area dealt with ongoing disruptions from the Sewer Conveyance Project.

The organization says local businesses, residents, and partners worked together to keep downtown Comox vibrant and welcoming throughout the year.

The BIA points to several marketing campaigns that helped maintain awareness and engagement during construction impacts.

Its Seas the Day multi-media campaign generated more than 15,600 unique visits to its landing page, supported by new videos and contests.

Event-based promotions tied to Summer Fest, the Halloween Parade, and the Mayor’s Tree Lighting and Winter Market also drew thousands of people downtown.

Destination development projects were another focus in 2025, aimed at enhancing the downtown experience.

Three alleyways and pathways were newly lit and activated, additional white lights were added to street trees, and new signature events were introduced.

Among them was the sold-out Shells and Suds Pub Crawl, which welcomed 120 participants.

The BIA also continued its advocacy work on behalf of downtown businesses.

Highlights included a successful five-year mandate renewal, securing increased funding and long-term stability, along with more than $25,000 in new sponsorships and grants.

The organization also participated in the Town of Comox’s Official Community Plan process and co-hosted a Developer’s Forum to support downtown infill and development opportunities.

The Comox BIA says it’s heading into 2026 energized and grateful, noting that strong community involvement helped make 2025 a successful year despite construction and traffic challenges.

Read more from the Town's Mayor at Town of Comox.