Downtown Kitchener patios enhance outdoor experience this summer

The Downtown Kitchener Business Improvement Area and City of Kitchener are thrilled to unveil the latest installment of the popular patio initiative, set to enhance the outdoor dining experience in downtown Kitchener for the 2024 season. The program is funded by the Downtown Kitchener BIA and the City supports the program by streamlining processes and making it easy for businesses to participate. The patio program continues to evolve, representing a commitment to enhancing the downtown experience.

Downtown patio installations are complete and have transformed the downtown landscape. Since the start, the patio program has been driven by a shared vision of fostering vibrant community spaces and supporting the local economy. With the support of the City and the Downtown Kitchener BIA, business owners are not faced with any barriers to participate.

In addition to enhancing the dining experience downtown, patios also serve as public spaces. Two additional community patios are installed in front of THEMUSEUM and the Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts.

"Patios play a vital role in fostering a vibrant and inclusive community. By creating inviting outdoor spaces, they support local businesses and contribute to our city's overall livability and appeal. By infusing the streets of Downtown Kitchener with comfortable seating and live music, we've transformed it into a vibrant destination where people seek out enjoyable experiences.” says Linda Jutzi, Executive Director, Downtown Kitchener BIA.

“Downtown Kitchener is the heart of our city and the arrival of warm weather and the downtown patio season are two of the things that make residents and visitors alike look forward to in Kitchener every year,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. "So many residents tell me how much they value this placemaking initiative for people to come together, build a sense of belonging and experience everything downtown has to offer."

"We are excited to be part of this initiative and look forward to summer," say Phong and Dawn Tran, owners of Matter of Taste. "These outdoor spaces will greatly increase our capacity and allow people to enjoy our coffee outside. The new overhead covers provide some sun protection and even during a light summer drizzle people can still take in the fresh air. The DTK BIA and the City of Kitchener did an incredible job making licensing and setting up the patio a breeze."

Downtown Kitchener is ready to embrace visitors with open arms this summer. Downtown businesses interested in having a patio can learn more at kitchener.ca/patios. For more information and updates on the Downtown Kitchener patio initiative follow us on social media @DTKitchener or @CityofKitchener.

For more information:

Linda Jutzi, Executive Director
Downtown Kitchener BIA
Mobile: 519-577-2071
ljutzi@kitchenerdowntown.com
www.downtownkitchenerbia.ca

Shawn Falcao, Manager, Corporate Communications
City of Kitchener
519-741-2200 Ext. 7094
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca

Downtown Kitchener Business Improvement Area

The Downtown Kitchener Business Improvement Area (BIA) is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality and cultural vibrancy of Downtown Kitchener. The BIA strives to create a welcoming and inclusive downtown experience for residents, visitors, and businesses through strategic initiatives and community partnerships.