The Plaza Downtown: A new business center

BONNERS FERRY — The Plaza Downtown, owned by Victor and Tess Rae, is a new business center with all the professional bells and whistles, catering to business owners and entrepreneurs with a wide array of options. The design of the building and the decor is a blend of contemporary and historical, with astounding attention to detail.

The Plaza is located in the landmark old First Security Bank building, and many of the bank’s characteristics, like the vaults, have been creatively incorporated into the new design, enhancing the character, while preserving the history.

“Seeing a building downtown with so much potential and being able to capture its amazing history and splendor has been something that I have wanted to do for a long time,” said Tess Rae.

The classic old clock that was a fixture from the 1960s, proudly watching over Main Street, has returned. Even though the original could not be located, Tess Rae was able to find enough photos from the Boundary County Museum to fabricate a new one to match the old design. “I’ve had people thank me for that,” she said.

Tess Rae considers it very exciting to embrace a concept that is considered progressive in a small town, but her enthusiasm to revitalization downtown Bonners Ferry is evident.

“The business center will be able to offer services that will help attract new businesses and retain businesses currently in the area,” she explained.

The Plaza Downtown is a 3,400 square foot professional building that features six private office suites, dedicated desks, flex seating, conference room and all the business amenities. According to the Plaza’s website, “Our Business Center promises to: Promote entrepreneurship and small businesses, allow individuals the opportunity to connect and collaborate and; ensure business services and technology are available for clients to achieve their maximum potential.”

The concept is that this will help businesses by providing the amenities, location, and professional appearance, at a fraction of the cost of a private office. Some of the features include: fast and secure WiFi, printer, copier, scanner, conference room, secure private meeting area, vintage phone booth for private calls, furnished common areas, reserved and customer parking, utilities, janitorial and snow removal, security cameras, 24/7 access, outdoor seating, complimentary coffee and tea, and catering options.

“The 14x24 conference room is available by the hour, half-day or full-day, to accommodate business meetings, video teleconferencing, training, seminars, mediations and more,” said Tessa Rae.

There are also desks available in the form of a dedicated desk that ensures the desk is always available; it includes a locking file cabinet. For a business owner who only needs the use of a desk on occasion, there is also a Flex Seating option.

“Having a business center downtown is crucial for developing entrepreneurs and retail business activity,” said Boundary Economic Director Dennis Weed. “I am excited to see all of the great things it will provide for our residents and businesses.”

At this time, all but one of the Suites have been filled. The current businesses include: D.A. Davidson and Co., Boundary Economic Development, James Hutchens, CPA, Gateway Financial Partners, Estate & Long Term Law Group, and newcomer Hubbard Agricultural Science.

Financial Advisor Bruce Pedey, who has been serving the community since 1993, now occupies one of the suites. “The Plaza Downtown is a great spot for me,” he said. “I am excited to be downtown in my former hometown.”

The Plaza Downtown is a great resource for business owners with a fit for every type of financial budget. For those driving by, the landscaped exterior complete with waterfall, adds an elegance to downtown. The Plaza brings Bonners Ferry forward in technology, while honoring the beauty of its historical past.

Business Center Hours

Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information: www.ThePlazaDowntown.com