Improvements in downtown Watford are expected to be completed this spring after the Township of Warwick recently received grant funding through the My Main Street Community Activator program.
Mayor Todd Case said the township received $54,000 in late 2024 for planned improvements at Bluebird Parkette and the public square.
Case said they're grateful for the funding boost to enhance the downtown area.
Improvements included in the Downtown Watford Placemaking Vibrancy Project were first noticed over the holidays as the funding helped purchase new Christmas lights.
"A lot of the other projects are underway so I think everything will probably be complete by early spring," said Case. "I think people are quite enjoying the new Christmas lights that we have in the community, we've had lots of positive comments on that and of course, the other improvements around Bluebird Parkette are things I think people will welcome as well."
Other improvements include the installation of a bench and bike rack at Bluebird Parkette, as well as new landscape lighting, a games table, and an information board. New signage will also be installed at the Old Fire Hall Museum.
Funding provided through the My Main Street program aims to revitalize downtown neighbourhoods and support local economies.
Case said the township would like to make improvements to Warwick Village as well, so they'll wait to see when the next funding opportunity arises.
The My Main Street program is funded through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) and delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute.