Port Hope’s Downtown Revitalization Project is well underway since the launch on September 4th announcing Michel Bourque as Downtown Revitalization Coordinator.
A flurry of activity has generated a strong awareness and interest within the community. The new website www.mydowntownporthope.com will provide ongoing news and information about the project and how the community can get involved.
The multi-faceted Downtown Revitalization Project is aimed at strengthening the community’s business core, re-energizing the Port Hope community and attracting the external audiences who may choose Port Hope as a destination for their home, business or vacation.
The project’s community-driven model was developed by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) in 2012, using proven best practices from successful programs in the U.S. and Quebec. Local businesses, building owners, community organizations, and residents will be directly involved and work closely with key partners including the HBIA, Chamber of Commerce, and Architectural Conservancy of Ontario – Port Hope Branch (ACO). Several community members will be more directly involved with their participation on the Downtown Revitalization Management Committee. Key elements to the project will include a Streetscape Study and Strategy, the RFP for this study will be issued in the very near future, and a Downtown Attraction and Retention Strategy to establish short, mid and long-term project goals to be sustained through community involvement.
With funding for the project through federal, provincial, and local partnerships, the Municipality will further enhance its business retention and promotional initiatives in conjunction with the Economic Development Strategic Plan.