We are pleased to launch our project page, where you can stay up-to-date on Gore Bay’s exciting Downtown Revitalization project: https://www.gorebay.ca/en/municipal-services-provincial-offences/town-projects. Here, you’ll find regular updates, project milestones, and details on future community meetings.

The Downtown Revitalization project is part of our vision to create a vibrant, accessible, and attractive downtown area that serves as the heart of our community. Key elements of the project include improving public spaces, enhancing accessibility, supporting local businesses, and fostering a lively, connected hub for residents and visitors alike.

Downtown Revitalization Project – Update #1

With Council approval and funding secured, this transformative initiative will be moving forward in 2025 to enhance the vibrancy and appeal of our downtown.

As part of the early planning process, initial design concepts were shared and discussed during a meeting with local businesses and an open house with residents. 

Progress is already visible on Dawson Street, where sidewalk and lock stone improvements have been completed to align with the envisioned enhancements for Meredith Street. These changes set the stage for a cohesive and inviting downtown experience.

Additionally, Town staff recently visited Sault Ste. Marie to review their downtown revitalization efforts and gain insights from their successes and challenges. This trip also emphasized strategies on how best to support local businesses during the construction period and how to keep them open. Lessons learned from this visit will help refine our approach and strengthen the project's outcomes. 

The Town is currently reviewing the final designs, with anticipation of releasing the Request for Proposal (RFP) in late January 2025. The targeted timelines for this project are as follows:

• Late January 2025: Release of Request for Proposal (RFP)
• Late March 2025: Selection of Contractor
• April/May 2025: Host public open houses to:
• Share the project schedule
• Share the final design; and
• Meet the Contractor
• Start of construction will be announced thereafter

(Please note that these timelines are subject to change).

The Town is committed to ensuring this revitalization reflects the needs and aspirations of Gore Bay’s residents and businesses. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to bring this vision to life.