NEWS RELEASE
DOWNTOWN STRATFORD BIA
*************************
The Downtown Stratford BIA is pleased to announce that the Downie Street Mural was selected for the My Main Street Community Activator initiative and has received support to animate the 2,000 sq. ft. wall at 151 Downie St.
The wall at 151 Downie St. was a beautiful canvas just waiting for an artist to bring it to life. Stratford is a cultural city with many offerings for visitors and residents to enjoy and this mural’s size and unique artistic style offers an amazing experience. This masterpiece came from the amazing artist Bareket Kezwer and was executed by Bareket and local Stratford artist Liz Emirzian. It will help to increase foot traffic to Stratford’s main street. Support from My Main Street has allowed the BIA to make this a reality.
Follow the Downtown Stratford BIA’s socials to enjoy the journey: Facebook, Instagram.
My Main Street is built on the principle of supporting community economic development and creating vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods which will enhance the overall quality of life for residents while also promoting sustainable and inclusive community development. My Main Street is delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), and supported by a Government of Canada investment through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Learn more about the My Main Street program at mymainstreet.ca.
Quotes:
“The BIA is extremely excited to be able to launch this major installation in the heart of downtown Stratford. This activation includes true pieces of Stratford and would not be possible without support from the My Main Street Community Activator.” - Jamie Pritchard, General Manager, Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area (BIA)
“Main streets are at the social and economic heart of community life in cities and towns across southern Ontario. They mobilize social capital to improve communities, and generate economic development opportunities. The enhancements the Downtown Stratford BIA are implementing will not only attract visitors and increase foot traffic, but will contribute to our collective infrastructure, strengthening our downtown cores as vibrant and inclusive places for everyone.” - Mary W. Rowe, CEO and President, Canadian Urban Institute
“The Canadian Urban Institute and the Government of Canada are investing in community projects, such as the Downie Street Mural in Stratford. These projects attract visitors to our main streets, support local businesses, and revitalize our communities – helping shops, restaurants and local economies thrive. Together, we’re building stronger, more vibrant communities.” - The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
*************************
