Council approves five-year downtown revitalization plan for Fenelon Falls

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: The heart of Fenelon Falls is set for a major transformation, as Kawartha Lakes Council has officially approved a funding agreement, with the Province of Ontario, for the Fenelon Falls Downtown Revitalization 2.0 project.

The initiative, backed by Ontario’s Rural Economic Development (RED) program, builds on the momentum of the successful 2017 action plan and will guide the community through the next five years, with a renewed focus on growth, infrastructure, and community pride.

“This is an exciting next chapter for Fenelon Falls,” said Carlie Arbour, Economic Development Officer – Community. “The work that’s gone into this action plan reflects a huge commitment by our residents, business owners, and community groups to build a downtown that’s vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable.”

The Discover Downtown Fenelon Falls Action Plan outlines four strategic goals: improving infrastructure, to support economic and population growth; expanding business diversity in the downtown core; building pride of place, through beautification and identity; and place making which enhances public spaces and community connection.

At the Tuesday, July 22nd council meeting, local councillors unanimously endorsed the plan which stems from more than a year of public engagement and data collection, involving over 1,000 surveys and community consultations.

“This plan is a direct reflection of what the community told us they wanted,” said Ms. Arbour. “From residents and business owners to our partners at the Chamber of Commerce and provincial ministries, this has truly been a collaborative process.”

Mayor Doug Elmslie echoed the enthusiasm, noting the municipality’s continued support for rural downtowns.

“Our downtowns are the heart of our communities, and Fenelon Falls has shown tremendous leadership in coming together with a shared vision,” said Mayor Elmslie. “Council is proud to support this project, and we look forward to seeing it come to life over the next five years.”

The first downtown revitalization effort in Fenelon Falls, launched in 2017, led to several key improvements, including: the reconstruction of Colborne Street, new wayfinding signage, outdoor art installations, and the launch of The Grove Theatre.

“We’ve already seen what a well-planned strategy can do,” said Chris Appleton, Chair of Fenelon Forward and longtime local volunteer. “This new plan gives us the tools, and the roadmap, to take things even further. It’s about making downtown Fenelon Falls a place where businesses thrive and people love to gather.”

Stage IV of the project, implementation and monitoring, will now begin, with oversight from the Discover Downtown Fenelon Falls Committee and continued support from the City’s Economic Development division.

“This work doesn’t happen overnight,” added Mr. Appleton. “But we’re in it for the long haul. With the right partnerships and support, we’re confident, the next five years will be transformational.”

The RED program is providing 50 percent matching funds for the initiative, with the City and the Fenelon Falls and District Chamber of Commerce sharing the remaining costs through financial and in-kind contributions.

Some of the initiatives outlined in the plan may be integrated into existing city budgets, while others may come forward as individual proposals for future funding.

“It’s a strong example of what good government and grassroots leadership can accomplish, when we align our goals,” said Ms. Arbour. “And it’s just the beginning.”