MESSAGES

We work together with the BIA to address pertinent issues impacting our membership and community. Through our collective efforts in tackling concerns, such as securing affordable, supportive housing, and essential resources for those facing crisis situations, we foster a positive impact on the neighborhood and strengthen the unity within our community.
Ausma Malik, First Deputy Mayor of Toronto
HIGHLIGHTS
19 Million+
Annual Visitors
115,000+
Working Population
55,000+
Projected Residential Population 2030
35,000+
Residential Population
WELCOME

The BIA is dedicated to creating programs and experiences that foster moments of connection. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, public realm enhancements, and developing innovative ways that showcase our district, we remain committed to the growth and vibrancy of our area.
Janice Solomon, Executive Director
YEAR IN REVIEW
2023 AT A GLANCE


ArtWalk engagement: 1,420 unique app users
Media impressions: 17,447,083


Total views of Seasonal Guides: 7,505
Number of businesses promoted: 381


Businesses featured in Fall Guide: 121 members


Total website views: 133,475


Views of member features: 4,426
Promotional reach on social media: 263,331


Total Online Reach: 2 Million +
Total Contesting Reach: 132,575


Email communications sent to BIA members: 116




2023 Community Events:
De-escalation Training
The Black Experience in Canadian History
Community Safety & Wellbeing Panel
ArtWalk Info Session
BIA Summer Social
BIA ArtWalk Launch Event
Safeguarding Against Organized Crime
A Safe Night Out Information Session




Working with the Toronto Police Service, we were successful in introducing the Neighbourhood Community Officer Program to our area. This initiative increased the presence of police in public spaces, enabling swift responses to safety-related concerns.


Advocacy Positions:
• Community Safety and Wellbeing
• Transportation, Transit, Mobility
• Supportive and Affordable Housing
• Commercial Taxes
• Addictions and Mental Health
• Visitor Economy


and appeal of the area.
Banners: 542
Pole Wraps: 284
Flower Baskets: 952
Deficiencies Reported: 2,500+
Hours Spent on Public Realm Maintenance: 18,000+


The City is proceeding with the John Street tender process, meeting with stakeholders monthly. The City is currently working through the design refresh, with a completion date of January 2024. Tender process is to follow once the refresh is complete
Plans for John Street include wider sidewalks, new hydro poles, special lighting, new paving treatment, flexible curbs, Wi-Fi and tree canopy.


BIA continues to work with Metrolinx, City of Toronto, and other BIAs on construction timelines and communications related to Ontario Line.
Development projects continue to grow in the Downtown West neighbourhood, and the BIA tracks applications while meeting quarterly with City of Toronto, and King-Spadina Planners.
OUR TEAM
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Past Chair
Michael Emory
Chair
Sarah Turney
Vice Chair & Governance
Veronica Maggisano
Treasurer
Jim Aldridge
Directors
Oliver Geddes
Simon Gitalis
Lorenz Hassenstein
Maya Kane
David Kelley
Michael Manuel
Deborah Scott
Laura Weyland
BIA STAFF
Executive Director
Janice Solomon
Director, Marketing & Communications
Dana Duncanson
Director, Safety & Security
Mike Josifovic
Urban Planning Manager
Anojan Sathasivam
Communications Manager
Justine Smith
Member Relations & Administration
Hayley James
A special thank you to our Board of Directors who have dedicated their time to provide advice and expertise for the betterment of our community, as well as our BIA staff for managing the day to day operations.