Welcome Messages
I’m proud to have worked closely with the Toronto Downtown West BIA to address key issues impacting our neighbourhood and make progress on our shared priorities for the area to thrive. I look forward to continuing our efforts together for meaningful community safety and well-being through investments in affordable housing, reliable transit and services, and championing economic development.
– Ausma Malik, First Deputy Mayor and City Councillor for Ward 10, Spadina-Fort York
2024
Highlights
Annual Visitors
Projected Residential Population in 2030
2024
Highlights
Working Population
Residential Population
A Message from our
Executive Director
A Year In Review
2024 At A Glance
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Dana Duncanson, Director of Marketing & Communications
“We curated a variety of experiences this year that highlighted our neighbourhood as a destination for visitors and a place for locals to explore and be proud of.”
Downtown Movies in the Park
Downtown Movies in the Park returned to David Pecaut Square this Summer, offering free outdoor movie screenings for the community. The event drew hundreds of attendees each week, providing an accessible, family-friendly experience.
Media Reach: 73,271,218
Total Attendance: 2,650+
Pups in the Park
Pups in the Park brought together pet-friendly businesses and the local community. The event featured free booths for BIA members to showcase their businesses, dog-friendly activations, and an off-leash area. Media outlets such as CTV News, Global TV, CP24, CityNews, 680 News, and CHFI provided widespread coverage, highlighting the neighbourhood and participating businesses.
Media Reach: 61,347,124
Total Attendance: 1,500+
Wellness Together Event
Wellness Together was held at Victoria Memorial Park, a collaborative effort between the BIA and local wellness businesses. The event featured free outdoor classes for the public, including fitness, yoga, and wellness sessions. This community-driven initiative highlighted local wellness services while promoting healthy living in an outdoor space.
Attendance: 1,000+
Neighbourhood Food Tours
The BIA launched food Tours in partnership with Culinary Adventure Co., and introduced food offerings as part of Pedal Pub’s tour. These ongoing tours offer a unique way for participants to explore local dining hotspots while discovering the neighbourhood’s landmarks and attractions.
Social Media Campaign Metrics
Total Plays/ Views: 488,073
Total Engagement: 29,807
Total Impressions: 367,361
Total Reach: 182,491
Neighbourhood Architectural Tours
The BIA Sponsored architectural tours in collaboration with the Toronto Society of Architects. These tours offered residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the rich architectural heritage of the neighbourhood, highlighting significant buildings and historical landmarks, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the area’s unique design and history
TIFF Scavenger Hunt
The BIA partnered with TIFF to launch a public Scavenger Hunt on Festival Street, engaging the public with an interactive activity. Open to all, the hunt featured prizes from various BIA members, offering a unique way to promote local businesses through both TIFF’s channels and our own. The event received media coverage, further amplifying visibility for participating businesses and the neighbourhood.
Participants: 1,391 participants with 293 completions
ArtWalk Enhancements
This year, we enhanced the ArtWalk experience by introducing a French language translation, making it more accessible to a broader audience. We also launched a Nuit Blanche art experience in partnership with TodoToronto, bringing more artistic engagement to the community.
Website
We continued to enhance our website and online presence to better reflect our identity as a district of experiences. Collaborating with Destination Toronto, we embedded their syndicated calendar into our site to expand the reach of member events. Additionally, we improved the site’s functionality for a more efficient user experience.
Total Page Views: 151,139
Neighbourhood Guides
We collaborated with Loop Designs to refresh and enhance our seasonal guides, which showcase our hospitality, retail, attractions, events, and more. These updated guides creatively promote the services and products offered by our member businesses, providing a vibrant overview of what our neighbourhood has to offer.
Total Views: 7,187
Total Number of Businesses Promoted: 350+
Social Media Promotions
This year, we showcased our district across online platforms through collaborative posts, influencer partnerships, and targeted campaigns that highlighted local businesses. Through engaging content we aimed to connect with residents and visitors while expanding our reach and following.
Total Followers: 30,238
Total Content Plays/ Views: 5,552,713
Total Engagement: 209,112
Total Reach: 4,771,920
Total Impressions: 2,420,088
Member Communications
In 2024, the BIA continued to keep members informed through weekly emails, seasonal newsletters, and timely communications, sharing key updates and opportunities.
Email Campaigns Sent to BIA Members: 79
Open Rate: 47%
Table 6ix Podcast
We proudly launched the Table 6ix podcast, spotlighting the leaders, business owners, and community members shaping our district. Season 1, available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube, features engaging interviews and insights into our vibrant neighbourhood.
Total Episode Views/ Listens: 26,135
Social Media Total Reach: 1,547,729
Social Media Total Impressions: 2,039,703
BIA Member Socials & Community Sessions
The BIA hosted a diverse range of community events that allowed experts in various fields to engage and educate participating members. We also hosted social events that fostered connections and networking opportunities.
Attendance: 500+
Awards
We’re proud to have received several community awards this year, including the OBIAA Award of Merit, the TABIA Innovation Award, and the TABIA Wellbeing & Safety Award, recognizing our efforts in public realm improvements, community safety, and innovative initiatives.
Mike Josifovic, Director of Safety & Security
In 2024, we have continued to make community safety and well-being one of our top priorities, and we work to achieve this through a variety of initiatives. A major highlight this year was the installation of Toronto’s first outdoor SaveStation AED, located in a high-traffic area by the CN Tower, further enhancing public safety in our community.
SaveStation Installation
The Toronto Downtown West BIA installed the city’s first outdoor SaveStation AED at a high-traffic location near the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium. This lifesaving device enhances public safety by providing easy access to emergency medical support in a tourist area of the neighbourhood.
Media Reach – Total Potential Audience: 60,685,731
Garda Security
This year, we enhanced neighbourhood safety with the introduction of Garda Mobile Security, providing dedicated mobile patrols 7 days a week, 8 hours a day. These regular patrols have strengthened our efforts to maintain a secure environment for businesses, residents, and visitors, addressing safety concerns promptly and proactively.
Toronto Police Foot Patrol Officers
Our dedicated Toronto Police Foot Patrol Officers continue to maintain a strong presence in the neighbourhood, contributing to the safety and well-being of the community. We work closely with 14 and 52 divisions to implement and refine various safety strategies, ensuring a coordinated approach to addressing local concerns. This ongoing partnership enhances communication between the BIA, law enforcement, and the community, fostering a safer and more secure environment for everyone
Safety & Security Groups
The Downtown West Security Group and the King West Nightlife Group are made up of security and operations representatives from BIA businesses, who participate in regular meetings with Toronto Police, the City, and various stakeholders.
- Downtown West Security Group
- King Street West Nightlife Committee
- Bremner Blvd. Traffic Committee
- SAFE Group
Donations
The BIA collects donations from members to support the City’s Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre at 129 Peter Street.
Advocacy
We value strategic partnerships that strengthen our mission to enhance downtown Toronto’s vibrancy and business growth. Our commitment to advocacy and supporting our members ensures that their concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
- Community Safety & Wellbeing
- Transportation, Transit, Mobility
- Housing Social – Supportive/Affordable Market Rental
- Commercial Taxes
- Addictions and Mental Health
- Visitor Economy
Anojan Sathasivam, Director of Planning & Public Realm
This year, we’ve made significant strides in enhancing our neighbourhood through our Annual Beautification Efforts and Maintenance program. A highlight of our efforts is the installation of the sculpture ‘He Was on a Ride to a Safer Place’ by world-renowned artists Gillie & Marc, a meaningful addition that encourages public engagement and placemaking through public art.
Highlight: Gillie & Marc Sculpture Installation
The sculpture “He Was on a Ride to a Safer Place” by world-renowned artists Gillie & Marc was installed in our community, enhancing placemaking and encouraging public engagement through art. The installation has quickly become a local landmark, inviting residents and visitors to interact with it and take memorable photos.
Media Campaign Reach: 58,677,217
The BIA Maintenance Program
The BIA’s maintenance program continues to address issues on public and private properties through ongoing deficiencies reporting and maintenance, posters, snow cleanup, power washing, sidewalk cleaning. beautification and enhancements.
New Pole Wraps: 212
Total BIA Banners: 542
Total BIA Flower Baskets: 952
Total 311 Reports: 1500+
Number of BIA Maintenance Team Reports: 1600+
John Street
John Street is a key pedestrian-priority corridor, connecting many of Toronto’s major cultural institutions. We continued to collaborate with the City on finalizing streetscape enhancement details needed for the tender process. The project is currently undergoing a technical design update for lighting and street poles, with tendering and construction expected to begin in 2025. Upon completion, John Street will feature wider sidewalks, new hydro poles, specialized lighting, upgraded paving, flexible curbs, Wi-Fi, and an enhanced tree canopy.
The Ontario Line project
The Ontario Line project is a priority transit plan for downtown Toronto, from Exhibition Place to the Ontario Science Centre.
Major infrastructure work is underway at Queen and Spadina & King and Bathurst.
The BIA participates in community consultation committee meetings and continues to provide regular updates on infrastructure work schedules.
Dana Duncanson, Director of Marketing & Communications
“We curated a variety of experiences this year that highlighted our neighbourhood as a destination for visitors and a place for locals to explore and be proud of.”
Downtown Movies in the Park
Downtown Movies in the Park returned to David Pecaut Square this Summer, offering free outdoor movie screenings for the community. The event drew hundreds of attendees each week, providing an accessible, family-friendly experience.
Media Reach: 73,271,218
Total Attendance: 2,650+
Pups in the Park
Pups in the Park brought together pet-friendly businesses and the local community. The event featured free booths for BIA members to showcase their businesses, dog-friendly activations, and an off-leash area. Media outlets such as CTV News, Global TV, CP24, CityNews, 680 News, and CHFI provided widespread coverage, highlighting the neighbourhood and participating businesses.
Media Reach: 61,347,124
Total Attendance: 1,500+
Wellness Together Event
Wellness Together was held at Victoria Memorial Park, a collaborative effort between the BIA and local wellness businesses. The event featured free outdoor classes for the public, including fitness, yoga, and wellness sessions. This community-driven initiative highlighted local wellness services while promoting healthy living in an outdoor space.
Attendance: 1,000+
Neighbourhood Food Tours
The BIA launched food Tours in partnership with Culinary Adventure Co., and introduced food offerings as part of Pedal Pub’s tour. These ongoing tours offer a unique way for participants to explore local dining hotspots while discovering the neighbourhood’s landmarks and attractions.
Social Media Campaign Metrics
Total Plays/ Views: 488,073
Total Engagement: 29,807
Total Impressions: 367,361
Total Reach: 182,491
Neighbourhood Architectural Tours
The BIA Sponsored architectural tours in collaboration with the Toronto Society of Architects. These tours offered residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the rich architectural heritage of the neighbourhood, highlighting significant buildings and historical landmarks, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the area’s unique design and history
TIFF Scavenger Hunt
The BIA partnered with TIFF to launch a public Scavenger Hunt on Festival Street, engaging the public with an interactive activity. Open to all, the hunt featured prizes from various BIA members, offering a unique way to promote local businesses through both TIFF’s channels and our own. The event received media coverage, further amplifying visibility for participating businesses and the neighbourhood.
Participants: 1,391 participants with 293 completions
ArtWalk Enhancements
This year, we enhanced the ArtWalk experience by introducing a French language translation, making it more accessible to a broader audience. We also launched a Nuit Blanche art experience in partnership with TodoToronto, bringing more artistic engagement to the community.
Website
We continued to enhance our website and online presence to better reflect our identity as a district of experiences. Collaborating with Destination Toronto, we embedded their syndicated calendar into our site to expand the reach of member events. Additionally, we improved the site’s functionality for a more efficient user experience.
Total Page Views: 151,139
Neighbourhood Guides
We collaborated with Loop Designs to refresh and enhance our seasonal guides, which showcase our hospitality, retail, attractions, events, and more. These updated guides creatively promote the services and products offered by our member businesses, providing a vibrant overview of what our neighbourhood has to offer.
Total Views: 7,187
Total Number of Businesses Promoted: 350+
Social Media Promotions
This year, we showcased our district across online platforms through collaborative posts, influencer partnerships, and targeted campaigns that highlighted local businesses. Through engaging content we aimed to connect with residents and visitors while expanding our reach and following.
Total Followers: 30,238
Total Content Plays/ Views: 5,552,713
Total Engagement: 209,112
Total Reach: 4,771,920
Total Impressions: 2,420,088
Member Communications
In 2024, the BIA continued to keep members informed through weekly emails, seasonal newsletters, and timely communications, sharing key updates and opportunities.
Email Campaigns Sent to BIA Members: 79
Open Rate: 47%
Table 6ix Podcast
We proudly launched the Table 6ix podcast, spotlighting the leaders, business owners, and community members shaping our district. Season 1, available on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube, features engaging interviews and insights into our vibrant neighbourhood.
Total Episode Views/ Listens: 26,135
Social Media Total Reach: 1,547,729
Social Media Total Impressions: 2,039,703
BIA Member Socials & Community Sessions
The BIA hosted a diverse range of community events that allowed experts in various fields to engage and educate participating members. We also hosted social events that fostered connections and networking opportunities.
Attendance: 500+
Awards
We’re proud to have received several community awards this year, including the OBIAA Award of Merit, the TABIA Innovation Award, and the TABIA Wellbeing & Safety Award, recognizing our efforts in public realm improvements, community safety, and innovative initiatives.
Mike Josifovic, Director of Safety & Security
In 2024, we have continued to make community safety and well-being one of our top priorities, and we work to achieve this through a variety of initiatives. A major highlight this year was the installation of Toronto’s first outdoor SaveStation AED, located in a high-traffic area by the CN Tower, further enhancing public safety in our community.
SaveStation Installation
The Toronto Downtown West BIA installed the city’s first outdoor SaveStation AED at a high-traffic location near the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium. This lifesaving device enhances public safety by providing easy access to emergency medical support in a tourist area of the neighbourhood.
Media Reach – Total Potential Audience: 60,685,731
Garda Security
This year, we enhanced neighbourhood safety with the introduction of Garda Mobile Security, providing dedicated mobile patrols 7 days a week, 8 hours a day. These regular patrols have strengthened our efforts to maintain a secure environment for businesses, residents, and visitors, addressing safety concerns promptly and proactively.
Toronto Police Foot Patrol Officers
Our dedicated Toronto Police Foot Patrol Officers continue to maintain a strong presence in the neighbourhood, contributing to the safety and well-being of the community. We work closely with 14 and 52 divisions to implement and refine various safety strategies, ensuring a coordinated approach to addressing local concerns. This ongoing partnership enhances communication between the BIA, law enforcement, and the community, fostering a safer and more secure environment for everyone
Safety & Security Groups
The Downtown West Security Group and the King West Nightlife Group are made up of security and operations representatives from BIA businesses, who participate in regular meetings with Toronto Police, the City, and various stakeholders.
- Downtown West Security Group
- King Street West Nightlife Committee
- Bremner Blvd. Traffic Committee
- SAFE Group
Donations
The BIA collects donations from members to support the City’s Streets to Homes Assessment and Referral Centre at 129 Peter Street.
Advocacy
We value strategic partnerships that strengthen our mission to enhance downtown Toronto’s vibrancy and business growth. Our commitment to advocacy and supporting our members ensures that their concerns are heard and addressed effectively.
- Community Safety & Wellbeing
- Transportation, Transit, Mobility
- Housing Social – Supportive/Affordable Market Rental
- Commercial Taxes
- Addictions and Mental Health
- Visitor Economy
Anojan Sathasivam, Director of Planning & Public Realm
This year, we’ve made significant strides in enhancing our neighbourhood through our Annual Beautification Efforts and Maintenance program. A highlight of our efforts is the installation of the sculpture ‘He Was on a Ride to a Safer Place’ by world-renowned artists Gillie & Marc, a meaningful addition that encourages public engagement and placemaking through public art.
Highlight: Gillie & Marc Sculpture Installation
The sculpture “He Was on a Ride to a Safer Place” by world-renowned artists Gillie & Marc was installed in our community, enhancing placemaking and encouraging public engagement through art. The installation has quickly become a local landmark, inviting residents and visitors to interact with it and take memorable photos.
Media Campaign Reach: 58,677,217
The BIA Maintenance Program
The BIA’s maintenance program continues to address issues on public and private properties through ongoing deficiencies reporting and maintenance, posters, snow cleanup, power washing, sidewalk cleaning. beautification and enhancements.
New Pole Wraps: 212
Total BIA Banners: 542
Total BIA Flower Baskets: 952
Total 311 Reports: 1500+
Number of BIA Maintenance Team Reports: 1600+
John Street
John Street is a key pedestrian-priority corridor, connecting many of Toronto’s major cultural institutions. We continued to collaborate with the City on finalizing streetscape enhancement details needed for the tender process. The project is currently undergoing a technical design update for lighting and street poles, with tendering and construction expected to begin in 2025. Upon completion, John Street will feature wider sidewalks, new hydro poles, specialized lighting, upgraded paving, flexible curbs, Wi-Fi, and an enhanced tree canopy.
The Ontario Line project
The Ontario Line project is a priority transit plan for downtown Toronto, from Exhibition Place to the Ontario Science Centre.
Major infrastructure work is underway at Queen and Spadina & King and Bathurst.
The BIA participates in community consultation committee meetings and continues to provide regular updates on infrastructure work schedules.
Our 2024
Financials
Thank You To Our Team
Board of Directors
Sarah Turney
Chair
Veronica Maggisano
Vice Chair & Governance
Jim Aldridge
Secretary & Treasurer
Oliver Geddes
Director
Simon Gitalis
Director
Maya Kane
Director
David Kelley
Director
Michael Manuel
Director
Deborah Scott
Director
Laura Weyland
Director
Cecilia Williams
Director
BIA Staff
Janice Solomon
Executive Director
Mike Josifovic
Director, Safety & Security
Dana Duncanson
Director, Marketing & Communications
Anojan Sathasivam
Director of Planning & Public Realm
Justine Smith
Marketing & Communications Manager
Hayley James
Member Experience Manager
Board of Directors
BIA Staff