CORONAVIRUS

Riverton Kicks Off Drive-Thru Blitz To Bring People Back To Businesses

May 1, 2020, 11:06 PM | Updated: Sep 13, 2020, 10:23 am

RIVERTON, Utah – One Utah city kicked off a “business blitz” to help boost the economy and bring customers back to local businesses.

“The contribution of business and business owners cannot be overlooked. It cannot be overstated,” said Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs. “It’s a time when they really need to capture revenue now.”

With the state transitioning to a moderate risk phase Friday, the wheels were beginning to turn for more businesses across the state. But it’s still slow going. So much so that Riverton has resorted to a drive-thru business blitz at a city park.

“It’s been a pretty overwhelming response so far,” Staggs said after the first of hundreds of cars passed through the park. He said a local business donated signs for the effort that businesses could use to advertise discounts free of charge. The city will also be raffling off thousands of dollars in gift cards.

“I think it’s great,” said Kira Jones, one of many slowly driving through the park with her phone out to take pictures of discounts and deals. “They already struggle to survive in today’s economy so this just hits them even harder.”

Among the many advertisements at the park is a deal from family-owned Wicked Peel Pizza Kitchen, which has been in business since January 2018.

“Last two months have been crazy,” said owner Mary Lee Wallwork. “It’s a roller coaster ride.”

Like so many other restaurants and shops, they’ve had to adapt by replacing plates with takeout and delivery boxes.

For the first time in more than six weeks, the state allowed restaurants that follow requirements to open their dining areas to customers beginning Friday. For now, Wallwork said they’re opting to stick with only takeout and delivery.

“A lot of our customers, that’s what they wanted us to do,” Wallwork said. “Let’s get back to normal but it’s going to take some time and we just all have to work together to do it.”

That’s why she’s grateful to have the city helping to drive people back to businesses as they reopen. It’s an effort the mayor said helps everyone involved, including the city, whose budget includes millions of dollars in sales tax revenue.

“We’re confident,” Staggs said. “We’re hopeful things will improve not just for individuals’ health but for their economic health as well. And I think that they’re not mutually exclusive.”

KSL 5 TV Live

Coronavirus

FILE: Former Utah Jazz John Stockton reacts during a 76-70 Wichita State win over the Gonzaga Bulld...

Michael Houck

Former Utah Jazz star John Stockton sues Washington medical director about COVID misinformation policy

Former Utah Jazz superstar John Stockton has filed a federal lawsuit against Washington officials on First Amendment violations, arguing the state's policy of COVID-19 misinformation is unconstitutional.

16 days ago

Deer Creek Reservoir...

Alex Cabrero

State parks expecting another record visitation year, hiring more workers

It didn't matter how cold or snowy it was at Deer Creek State Park Friday afternoon. Nothing was going to stop Leonard Sawyer from taking his boat out to do a little fishing.

1 month ago

FILE —  Respiratory virus illness activity continues to increase across the US.
(Joe Burbank/Orl...

Emma Benson

‘Not viruses to mess around with’: Experts urge caution during ongoing ‘tripledemic’

Experts say though not as severe as last year, this winter we're seeing another "tripledemic" – rising cases of COVID-19, flu and RSV in Utah.

3 months ago

FILE - COVID-19 antigen home tests. (AP Photo/Patrick Sison, File)Credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS...

Emma Benson

‘The ICUs are full:’ Keep yourself and others healthy this holiday

It's time for holiday gatherings, but with more people around us comes a greater risk of getting sick.

3 months ago

Julianna Preece goes through the mountain of medical documents she's acquired for her health condit...

Lauren Steinbrecher

Herriman couple is suing CVS, says 5x Covid vaccine dose mistake caused health problems

A couple is suing a Utah CVS vaccination clinic, saying a nurse’s mistake led to the wife receiving five times the normal COVID-19 vaccine dose and caused serious health issues she’s still dealing with today.

4 months ago

FILE - COVID-19 antigen home tests. (AP Photo/Patrick Sison, File)Credit: ASSOCIATED PRESS...

Associated Press

More free COVID-19 tests from the government are available for home delivery through the mail

Americans can order more free COVID-19 tests online for home delivery.

4 months ago

Sponsored Articles

Women hold card for scanning key card to access Photocopier Security system concept...

Les Olson

Why Printer Security Should Be Top of Mind for Your Business

Connected printers have vulnerable endpoints that are an easy target for cyber thieves. Protect your business with these tips.

Modern chandelier hanging from a white slanted ceiling with windows in the backgruond...

Lighting Design

Light Up Your Home With These Top Lighting Trends for 2024

Check out the latest lighting design trends for 2024 and tips on how you can incorporate them into your home.

Technician woman fixing hardware of desktop computer. Close up....

PC Laptops

Tips for Hassle-Free Computer Repairs

Experiencing a glitch in your computer can be frustrating, but with these tips you can have your computer repaired without the stress.

Close up of finger on keyboard button with number 11 logo...

PC Laptops

7 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your Laptop to Windows 11

Explore the benefits of upgrading to Windows 11 for a smoother, more secure, and feature-packed computing experience.

Stylish room interior with beautiful Christmas tree and decorative fireplace...

Lighting Design

Create a Festive Home with Our Easy-to-Follow Holiday Prep Guide

Get ready for festive celebrations! Discover expert tips to prepare your home for the holidays, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable moments.

Battery low message on mobile device screen. Internet and technology concept...

PC Laptops

9 Tips to Get More Power Out of Your Laptop Battery

Get more power out of your laptop battery and help it last longer by implementing some of these tips from our guide.

Riverton Kicks Off Drive-Thru Blitz To Bring People Back To Businesses