Orillia is moving forward in its effort to revitalize the downtown and waterfront. Council Committee has given the go-ahead to start the planning process.
Last night the committee awarded a $174,930 contract to Urban Strategies Incorporated to begin a six-month process of developing a plan to improve the two areas.
Mayor Angelo Orsi says the idea was a campaign promise both he and Council made to tap into the City’s potential. He says there is a lot of potential in the downtown and the waterfront and they want to come up with a plan that can generate economic benefits such as jobs and business or commercial opportunities.
The process will rely on something called a Design Charrette where public consultation is encouraged. Mayor Orsi says the consultants will have a team of experts in a room with stakeholders and citizens to discuss what visions and concerns they have in improving the downtown and the waterfront.
The mayor says this is a very important project for the future of the City. And he adds this will lay the foundation for many years ahead us.
Stakeholders that will be involved in the process include the Downtown Business Improvement Area, Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce, and Orillia Power Distribution Corporation.
Upon Council’s approval, the process is set to begin in January 2012 and conclude in June 2012.
