Mayor Berry Vrbanovic highlights three pillars of progress and announces new community partnership at 2026 State of the City

Mayor Berry Vrbanovic delivered his 2026 State of the City address this evening at The Glovebox, outlining a clear vision for Kitchener’s future built on local leadership, collaboration, and action. 

This year’s theme - Made in Kitchener - reflects the city’s long-standing approach to tackling challenges: developing solutions locally, working across sectors, and delivering results for residents. 

“Made in Kitchener is not just a reflection of our past - it is how we move forward,” said Mayor Vrbanovic. “It means focusing on what we can control, working together, and turning ideas into action right here in our community.” 

The address focused on three key pillars shaping the city’s future: 

Housing, infrastructure, and future-focused planning 

The Mayor outlined Kitchener’s leadership in housing delivery, with more than 17,000 homes approved since 2023 and continued progress in advancing development despite market challenges. He emphasized the importance of acting on what municipalities can control, aligning planning policy and infrastructure readiness, and improving processes to accelerate housing construction – especially affordable housing. 

A thriving local economy - built by difference-makers 

Kitchener’s economy continues to grow through innovation, entrepreneurship, and talent. The Mayor highlighted investments in the Innovation Arena and the broader downtown innovation ecosystem, alongside the City’s forthcoming updated economic development strategy, Make It Kitchener 2.1, which focuses on supporting businesses, attracting investment, and expanding into emerging sectors such as health innovation and artificial intelligence. 

Community infrastructure, health, and belonging 

Investments in neighbourhood programs, recreation, and cultural initiatives are strengthening connections and improving quality of life. Projects such as the the Cowan Recreation Centre at RBJ Schlegel Park, alongside programs like Love My Hood, reflect the City’s commitment to inclusive, accessible spaces and community-led initiatives. 

New partnership to expand access to recreation 

As part of his address, Mayor Vrbanovic announced a new partnership with Equip Sport and Jumpstart Canada to provide free access to recreational equipment across Kitchener. 

The program will introduce a network of 30 self-serve equipment lockers at 27 community recreation locations, allowing residents to borrow items such as basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs, and fitness equipment at no cost. 

“Access to sport and recreation should not depend on your ability to pay,” said Mayor Vrbanovic. “This partnership is about removing barriers and making it easier for everyone - especially children, youth, and newcomers - to get active, connect, and belong.” 

The initiative is sponsor-funded and designed to be scalable, supporting increased participation and activation of public spaces without additional cost to taxpayers. 

The evening also featured performances by local artists in celebration of Kitchener’s creative community and the inaugural Kitchener Takes the Stage event this summer. 

A video of the address, and a copy of the speech will be available at Kitchener.ca/SOTC. 

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For more information: 
Corporate Communications and Marketing 
City of Kitchener 
Media@kitchener.ca