Photo Karen Graham.
Pictured is a new outdoor cafe established by the owners of Millbrook Valley Chocolates in the alleyway and in front of their store, one of the first projects supported by the CIP grant program.
The first round of grants totalling $60,106 has been approved for projects under the township’s Community Improvement Plan (CIP) established last year. Fifteen applications were received, with approvals in the amounts of $25,000 each for projects dedicated to façade and signage improvement and for building and site improvement, with the remaining funds directed to the development of a sidewalk café.
Properties located at 1 and 46 King St. East and 40 King St. West will benefit from exterior improvements including brick repair and repointing, the restoration of a cupola and extensive landscaping at the former home of St. Anne’s United Church. Façade and signage improvements including brick and stone repairs, improved access, and the enhancement and restoration of heritage features are also scheduled for properties along this street. A new sidewalk café has been established in the alleyway beside Millbrook Valley Chocolates, where this tenant will provide patio seating. Customers will soon be able to enjoy specialty coffee, ice cream and chocolate treats outside, while taking in the atmosphere of our rejuvenated downtown.
These are the first projects to be funded under this ten year economic development tool established last September. The CIP establishes a framework for future capital improvement and other municipal government projects and encourages private sector investment within a key area. It allows the municipality to extend financial assistance to property owners and tenants who undertake private investment projects aimed at revitalizing the main retail business area on a cost-sharing basis. Project priorities can shift each year, and can include the development of affordable, alternative and rental housing units, improved pedestrian and vehicle traffic linkages as well as storefront beautification projects.
Beautification and restoration of the downtown area is one of the key goals of the plan, ensuring it remains the focal point for tourism and commercial activity in the township. Improvements to façades, landscapes and signage particularly those that emphasize heritage features as well as structural repairs improving functionality all contribute to this objective. All of these projects will create physical improvements that enhance the commercial core and hopefully start a chain reaction where other tenants and property owners.
The tool even allows for specific locations to be deemed as priority sites, making them eligible for increased funding. Priority sites are described as those where redevelopment or improvement could have a significant impact on the area due to their location, significance or redevelopment potential. Properties located at 1 and 17 King St. East and 40 King St. West were deemed to be priority sites, allowing each of them to receive $2,000 in incremental funding. Target uses for priority sites may also be identified to encourage specific types of redevelopment. Last week, Council authorized the completion of a Structural Condition Audit on the structural condition of the existing Millbrook Arena, the first step in the potentially extensive process of deciding the role this critical community asset will play in the future. KG
