On Wednesday, February 26, the City and several community partners will introduce and discuss a plan for Guelph’s Baker District. Concepts for a funding strategy will also be discussed during the special Council workshop.
The Baker District, the area bordered by Wyndham, Quebec and Baker streets, has the potential to be a future home to the YMCA, Conestoga College, Innovation Guelph, University of Guelph, and the Guelph Public Library—all forming a unique centre of learning, training, and entrepreneurship for Guelph and the region.
“The Baker District is about creating new opportunities for Guelph to reach its fullest potential. This program creates a major new anchor for the community and would be a significant economic driver for the local economy,” says Ian Panabaker, corporate manager, Downtown Renewal.
Staff is recommending the creation of the Guelph Investment Fund to be used to fund the Baker District project as well as major public space components such as St. George’s Square and Wyndham Street, which supports the District and parking infrastructure to be identified in the City’s Parking Master Plan.
During the workshop, Council will discuss different ways to fund these projects. Staff is scheduled to present a funding recommendation in May based on the outcomes of the workshop.
WHAT Guelph Investment Fund discussion (special City Council workshop)
WHO Ian Panabaker, Downtown Renewal, City of Guelph
Rob Spanier, LiveWorkLearnPlay Inc.
Doug Minett, Downtown Advisory Committee
Kristel Manes, Innovation Guelph
Jim Bonk, YMCA Guelph
Barb Kelly, Conestoga College
David Smiderle, Conestoga College
Kitty Pope, Guelph Public Library
Tyler Valiquette, Central Student Association, University of Guelph
Belinda Leach, University of Guelph
WHERE Council Chambers, City Hall
1 Carden Street
WHEN Wednesday, February 26
6-8 p.m.