MPL receives Government of Canada support through My Main Street Community Activator Place

Markham Public Library receives Government of Canada support through My Main Street Community Activator Placemaking Program

August 16, 2022 – MARKHAM, ON – Markham Public Library (MPL) is pleased to announce that its MPL Trail Project was selected for the My Main Street Community Activator program. MPL has received $25,000 to animate the trails and main streets near the Markham Village and Unionville Library branches.

The Government of Canada’s My Main Street Community Activator program, delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), supports the revitalization of local neighbourhoods. This is a two-year, $23.25-million investment by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), delivered by CUI and the Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO).

The MPL Trail Project highlights the natural and cultural history of the area through storytelling and programming, emphasizing the wellness benefits of nature while attracting visitors to the two main streets. Programs include Escape to Main Street, a geocaching activity that will take people through the trails and main streets in search of clues, Indigenous eco-tours and guided storywalks highlighting diverse local artists inspired by the natural and cultural beauty of the area.

MPL will also animate the trails using a free app which will allow people to enjoy self-guided walks using their smart devices. Participants can also access digital content and learn about Markham’s rich local history and ecology by visiting the library’s website.

New trailheads will launch at Markham Village Library and Unionville Library branches and will include trail maps, guides to the Markham Main Streets and lending collections of outdoor equipment – binoculars, walking poles, compasses etc. – that can be enjoyed on the trails.

Indigenous Nature Walks will be held on August 27 and September 24, led by Alan Colley from Toronto Aboriginal Eco Tours, where participants can explore relationships with nature. Registration is required in advance of each walk. 

Quotes

“Our government is committed to helping communities bring their main streets back to life. My Main Street is providing vital support to projects that will reanimate neighbourhoods through installations, events and activities that are inclusive, innovative and engaging to create jobs and drive economic growth for local economies.” — The Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario)

“My Main Street Community Activator is an excellent program that will support the City of Markham’s exciting initiative to reimagine public spaces. Our Main Streets can be places to shop and dine while enjoying our beautiful trails. I applaud Markham Public Library for making our streets, trails and libraries more enticing.” — His Worship Frank Scarpitti, Markham Mayor

“MPL is honoured to be selected for the My Main Street Community Activator program. We are committed to building a more vibrant city and stronger neighbourhoods in Markham.

The MPL Trail Project will help revitalize both Main Street Markham and Main Street Unionville by increasing foot traffic to restaurants and shops on the main streets. It will also benefit the wellness of Markham residents by enticing them to visit the beautiful trails in Markham where they can explore and connect with nature.” — Catherine Biss, CEO of Markham Public Library

Background

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 356,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy. 

Stay Connected: Visit our  newsroom or search #MarkhamNews and #MarkhamEvents for the latest information on City programs, services and events.

The Canadian Urban Institute is the national platform that houses the best in Canadian city building — where policymakers, urban professionals, civic and business leaders, community activists and academics can learn, share and collaborate with one another from coast to coast to coast. Through research, engagement and storytelling, our mission is to ensure Canada builds vibrant, equitable, liveable and resilient cities. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.

For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts 

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Office  
mayorscarpitti@markham.ca

Kisha Powell
Media Relations & Communications Specialist
City of Markham
kpowell@markham.ca

Nick Hanson  
Communications Lead           
Canadian Urban Institute       
media@mymainstreet.ca

Monica Granados
Press Secretary, Office of the Hon. Helena Jaczek
Minister responsible for the Federal Economic
Development Agency for Southern Ontario
monica.granados@feddevontario.gc.ca

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