Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack has officially announced the launch of a substantial $3 million Downtown Action Plan Fund, aimed at injecting new life into the city's core. This initiative, unveiled at the Stanley Milner Library on February 26, will provide financial support for projects focused on enhancing recreational amenities, beautification efforts, and community events.
Funding Streams and Application Details
According to Tom Girvan, the City of Edmonton's director of Downtown economy, the fund is structured around three primary funding streams. Applicants can seek grants for beautification projects, the development of new recreational facilities, and one-off events such as musical concerts, fitness classes, or sports programs. Girvan emphasized that this represents a layered approach to addressing the complex goal of increasing demand and interest in Downtown Edmonton.
"There won't be one solution that will solve all problems or address all the opportunities and challenges, but this is one of the approaches that's encouraging more people to be here," Girvan stated during the announcement.
Grant Amounts and Eligibility
The fund offers up to $100,000 for one-off events and beautification initiatives, while up to $250,000 is available for projects aimed at developing new recreational amenities. Interested parties are encouraged to email downtown@edmonton.ca for further information and application guidelines.
Application Intake Periods
The application process will be conducted over four distinct intake periods. The first period launched with the February 26 announcement and will accept proposals until March 23. A second intake will begin the following day, running until April 20, followed by a third intake until May 19. The final intake period will conclude on June 15.
Successful applications will be announced at the start of each new intake period, with the exception of the last round, which will reveal approved projects on July 13. This staggered approach allows for continuous evaluation and funding allocation throughout the year.
Community Impact and Previous Success
Quinn Phillips, director of marketing and communications for the Downtown Business Association, highlighted the tangible benefits of previous funding initiatives. "When we hosted Downtown Winterval ... we had 10,000-plus people come out to the festival," she recalled. "There were 13 businesses who activated and got involved with the festivities. Most of the businesses that reported back to us saw an increase between 10 and 30 per cent in their sales compared to a regular Saturday in the winter."
Phillips expressed enthusiasm for the extension of the $3 million fund, previously known as the Downtown Vibrancy Fund, noting its potential to further boost local business and community engagement.
Future Prospects and Community Input
Cheryl Probert, president of the Downtown Edmonton Community League, voiced her support for the initiative, particularly advocating for more outdoor events in areas like the recently opened O-day'min park. "We've had tremendous success with some big events Downtown so we're very excited to see that continue," Probert said. "Year-round activity is really important in continuing to advance our reputation and our profile as a place to be."
The Downtown Action Plan Fund is part of a broader strategy to revitalize Edmonton's urban core, addressing both immediate needs and long-term development goals. By supporting a mix of recreational, aesthetic, and event-based projects, the city aims to foster a vibrant, attractive downtown environment that draws residents and visitors alike.
