Ambient lighting part of plan to improve downtown

Downtown North Bay will receive $50,000 to make small infrastructure improvements at four designated outdoor sites within its current boundaries by installing ambient lighting, and paving a multi use parking lot. It's hoped these improvements will increase daily foot traffic by promoting outdoor, self-guided interactions that can be shared individually or in a group setting.

“We look forward to continuing to improve the area for our community members through this project," says Executive Director Amber Livingstone.

Also, The Gathering Place will receive $15,000 to work with the Children's Aid Society in building a community garden at a former school playground. The plan is to build garden boxes in the playground area, to turn the pavement into green space. The fruit and vegetables produced will then be distributed by a Food Outreach team to various vulnerable population groups within the city of North Bay and the surrounding area. 

"The new garden spot will allow us to not only grow more fresh produce for our kitchen, our outreach partners, and the youth involved in the project, but it will also allow us to provide some educational components to the youth on not only gardening but the importance of sustainability and healthy eating," says Gathering Place Executive Director Dennis Chippa.

It's all part of the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative.

 “Both of these organizations have operated successful community projects in the past and I’m excited to see the results of these new ventures," stated MP Anthony Rota, "Our community groups know best what kind of projects will have the greatest impact for the residents and local economies as they respond to the unique challenges presented by COVID-19."

The Canada Healthy Communities Initiative was created to help communities adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and create safe ways for residents to access services and enjoy the outdoors.

“Public spaces are the glue to our communities: they enable a feeling of belonging and of social cohesion. They are a big part of what makes communities safe, vibrant and connected. These projects from the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative will help our community to connect safely and will benefit the mental and physical well-being of our residents.," added Rota.

Visit healthycommunitiesinitiative.ca to find out more about how to apply, explore resources for applicants and sign up for community mobilization sessions.