CELPIP Writing Task 2 survey samples: Level 7, 9 and 11

I prefer Option B, the public market and community space. Downtown already has some parking, but it does not have a good place where local people can meet in every season.

First, the market will help small businesses. Farmers and people who make food or crafts can sell their products without renting an expensive shop. This is good for them and also gives residents more choices. For example, my neighbour makes bread at home, but she only sells it online because a store is too costly.

Second, the space can be used for community events. In winter, many outdoor events are cancelled because of snow and cold weather. A covered place can have music, children activities and holiday markets even when the weather is bad.

Some drivers may want more parking, and I understand this problem. However, a parking lot is useful only for cars, while a market can help businesses and families. For these reasons, Option B is better for our city.

I strongly prefer Option B: a covered public market and community-event space. Although inexpensive parking would be convenient, the market would create more lasting value for downtown residents and businesses.

The strongest benefit is affordable access for small vendors. A permanent storefront can cost thousands of dollars each month, while a weekend stall would let a baker, farmer or newcomer-owned business test products without taking on that risk. My neighbour currently sells sourdough only through social media; a regular market would give her direct contact with customers and could help turn a side business into a reliable income.

The covered space would also make downtown useful throughout the year. Our summer street festival is popular, but similar events disappear once the temperature drops. A sheltered venue could host winter markets, school performances and free workshops, bringing visitors to nearby cafés during their quietest months.

Extra parking might save drivers a short walk, but it would leave the lot empty much of the day. A flexible market would support commerce, culture and community in the same footprint. For those reasons, Option B is the better public investment.

I recommend Option B, the covered public market and community-event space. A low-cost parking lot would address a narrow convenience; a flexible public venue would strengthen downtown commerce and give residents a useful gathering place in every season.

Most importantly, the market would lower the barrier facing small vendors. Instead of committing to a costly storefront, local growers, home-based food businesses and new entrepreneurs could rent a stall for a day and test demand directly. A neighbourhood baker, for instance, could build a customer base before signing a lease. Those visitors would also purchase from surrounding cafés and shops, spreading the benefit beyond the market itself.

The same structure could support concerts, school showcases and settlement workshops when snow makes outdoor programming impossible. Because stalls can be removed, the city would gain a market on Saturday, a performance venue on Sunday and an emergency community space when needed.

Admittedly, affordable parking could help some drivers. However, nearby garages already serve that single purpose, whereas the proposed market combines economic, cultural and practical uses on one scarce downtown site. Option B therefore offers the stronger long-term return for the whole community.