New downtown Brampton pilot project gets funding boost from Region of Peel

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Published June 11, 2021 at 3:18 pm

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A downtown Brampton pilot project just got a $250,000 boost from Peel Region.

The Welcoming Streets program will assist vulnerable individuals and provide support to Brampton’s downtown businesses and property owners.

The program will include more timely responses to business requests, enhance communication and collaboration among stakeholders, improvements to cleanliness as well as the perceptions of community safety and well-being.

It will also seek to provide improved support to vulnerable populations in accessing regional and non-profit programs and services to improve their outcomes.

“I have heard from many residents and businesses that are looking to grow their businesses and looking for more customers in the downtown,” said Rowena Santos, Brampton’s chair of community services, and regional councillor wards 1 and 5.

“One of the best ways to make our downtown more welcoming is by supporting the businesses that are there and also ensuring that vulnerable populations not only have access, but are utilizing the many supports available to them.”

The initiative will see the program be co-designed by the Region of Peel and the City of Brampton in collaboration with Peel Regional Police and the Downtown Brampton BIA and will support the goals of Peel’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.

“Our business community has let us know they are looking for a cleaner, safer downtown and we are taking action to address their concerns,” said councillor Paul Vicente, vice-chair of Brampton’s Economic Development.

“I look forward to seeing the results of the pilot and believe it will be a win-win-win for Brampton downtown businesses, vulnerable populations, and residents that enjoy what our downtown has to offer.”

Brampton will join other Ontario municipalities, including the cities of Guelph, Oshawa and Cambridge, that have implemented similar programs in their communities.

Following the pilot, staff will review the outcomes and provide recommendations for consideration in the City and Region’s 2023 budget process.

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