Submitted by Todd Smith – MPP Bay of Quinte – December 11th
A $27,607 investment from the Province of Ontario will make holiday celebrations in downtown Belleville brighter this season, Todd Smith, MPP for Bay of Quinte announced today.
The Belleville Downtown District BIA’s Enchanted and Festival Lights programming was one of the first 27 project across Ontario to receive funding through the new Reconnect Festival and Event Program, a $9-million initiative to help municipalities and organizations deliver innovative and safe experiences to help people connect with their own communities in new ways during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The projects offer lighting displays in Victoria Park and through the historic downtown area and support an enhanced atmosphere by supporting pedicab transportation, live music, local artisans, outdoor fireplaces and extended options for dining and evening shopping.
“We know that special events like those planned for downtown Belleville add value to our communities, offering special experiences and boosting our local economy,” said Smith. “I’m pleased to see Ontario offer this support for our businesses through the Reconnect program. I hope Quinte residents come out for the lights and attractions and stays to see what our merchants have to offer.”
Marijo Cuerrier, the executive director of the Belleville Downtown District BIA, was thrilled to receive the funding in time for the holiday season.
“The Reconnect grant funding from the Ontario government has allowed the Belleville Downtown District to develop and implement six weeks of holiday experiences that are safe and fun for our local community in these unpredictable times,” said Cuerrier. “The side effect is a happy community as we lead up to Christmas. The downtown core is vibrant and inviting, which leads to more support for our local business. It’s a win-win for all involved.”
After launching the Reconnect program in October, the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries has extended the deadline for the Reconnect program to invite additional organizations to seek support for safe programming options such as virtual or drive-thru events. The new deadline is Dec. 22 at 5 p.m. interested organizations can view the program criteria at https://www.ontario.ca/page/available-funding-opportunities-ontario-government#section-16.
