The Downtown Business Association, Main Street Program and The City of Red Deer have partnered in a new initiative that will see utility boxes in the downtown "transformed" into works of art.

"Scenes on a Box is a new program that showcases Red Deer's history and enhances downtown," says Ray Congdon, Main Street Program Coordinator.

Under the pilot project, utility boxes in four downtown locations - Taylor Drive north of 45 Street, Ross at 47 Avenue, 49 Avenue north of 51 Street and 51 Avenue near the old Railway Station - will be wrapped in photographs depicting Red Deer's past.

"The City of Red Deer was pleased to participate in this partnership by providing utility boxes for the photo wraps," stated Ed Morris, Greater Downtown Coordinator, City of Red Deer.

The historical mini-murals that were installed this week are a first for Red Deer.  Project partners may look at expanding the number of locations in future.

"Main Street has initiated many revitalization projects.  Scenes on a Box is yet another new cooperative venture that benefits downtown and beautifies our community through public art," says Laura Turner, Downtown Business Association Executive Director.

Sidewalk patios will open at three different downtown locations thanks to a partnership between the Downtown Business Association (DBA) and The City of Red Deer.

While downtown restaurateurs have long taken their wares outside, this pilot project involves extending the sidewalks through the use of temporary wooden platforms, allowing businesses to expand their outdoor restaurant area.

"The Greater Downtown Action Plan encourages the creative use of sidewalks and pedestrian areas in order to add to the vibrancy of our downtown." said Laura Turner, DBA Executive Director.  "Other downtowns have had similar sidewalk patios for many years, it was natural that Red Deer would introduce such a program.  We're pleased that downtown businesses were eager to be involved," she added.

The City will allow temporary sidewalk patios to open from June to September and although a pilot program, there are hopes that downtown restaurants will take part on a permanent basis.

City of Red Deer Inspections & Licensing Parking Liaison, Fred Dieno indicated, "our department originally saw this concept very successfully implemented in Halifax.  We approached the DBA in hope that there would be interest in trying a similar project in Red Deer.  If this is successful we will look at making this a yearly opportunity for businesses."

The Red Deer Main Street Project will be holding a community meeting/workshop to review the accomplishments of the Main Street Project over the past six years.  The meeting will also assist in identifing future directions and responsibility for conservation and preservation of our downtown.

Details are as follows:
Date: Wednesday June 13, 2007
Time: 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Location Scott Block
4816 - 50 Avenue

For more information contact Ray Congdon, Main Street Coordinator. Telephone 340 8696