This year, The City’s approach to Meet the Street will evolve from direct delivery to supporting community-led downtown initiatives.
“For the past two years, Meet the Street has substantially increased the vibrancy of the downtown core with a series of new murals and an annual festival,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, Community Development Superintendent. “The festival grew from a need for community connection and positive passive activities during the COVID-19 pandemic and was supported by operational dollars and grant funding. The needs of the community have since changed, and we’re seeing an opportunity to step back and let the community guide us.”
In place of direct delivery, The City will support community organizations in hosting special events downtown, through funding opportunities, planning resources, and facilitating lasting partnerships.
“There are many ways The City can support event organizers, from planning and financial resources to equipment loans. We encourage organizations that are considering hosting an event downtown to connect with our Community Development department to find out how we can help.”
Specific supports available for event hosts include the Community Public Art Grant, which can provide matching funds for property owners interested in adding a mural to their space, an Equipment Loan Program which supports more than 50 events annually, and the Red Deer Community Events Calendar, a free tool for event organizers to promote their initiative.
To learn more about events happening in Red Deer, visit www.reddeerevents.ca.