Downtown Uxbridge Vision

December 2020

# myuxbridgedowntown

                                                     DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION (My Uxbridge Downtown) – Vision 
 
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I.  Table of Contents 
0  BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................................................... 2 
1  Context ......................................................................................................................................................... 2 
2  Project Goals, Business Outcomes and Objectives ..................................................................................... 2 
3  Stage 1 ......................................................................................................................................................... 2 
0  DEVELOPMENT OF A VISION...................................................................................................................... 3 
1  What is a Vision ........................................................................................................................................... 3 
2  The Uxbridge Downtown Vision.................................................................................................................. 3 
3  Developing the Strategic Plan and Action Plan .......................................................................................... 3 
0  THE VISION STATEMENT ............................................................................................................................ 4 
1  Description of Uxbridge Downtown in the future ...................................................................................... 4 
2  Glossary ....................................................................................................................................................... 5 
II.  ANNEX A – 2009 VISION ................................................................................................................................ 6 
 
   

DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION (My Uxbridge Downtown) – Vision

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1.0 BACKGROUND

1.1 Context

In 2020, the Township of Uxbridge, with support from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and

Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), the Region of Durham and the Uxbridge BIA, initiated a Downtown

Revitalization Project (UDR).

Between February 2020 and December 2021, the UDR Project will implement the first 3 stages of

the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) 4-stage process for Downtown

Revitalization.

• Stage 1 – Preparation

• Stage 2 – Collect Data and Analyze

• Stage 3 – Develop Goals & Action Plans

• Stage 4 – Implementation

1.2 Project Goals, Business Outcomes and Objectives

Goals

Objectives & Measurable

Business Outcomes

Develop a cohesive long-term

vision for the downtown of

Uxbridge.

Create a Strategic Plan

and Action Plan with

short, medium and long-

term goals to improve the

downtown’s prosperity.

More businesses and visitors

in the downtown.

1.3 Stage 1

Stage 1 is Preparation (February 2020 to December 2020):

The activities to be completed during Stage 1 include:

• Hiring a Coordinator (Project Manager) to manage all activities;

• Developing a brand for the project (#myuxbridgedowntown);

• Establishing the Uxbridge Downtown Revitalization Advisory Committee;

• Preparing a Preliminary Work Plan; and

• Development of a vision for the Downtown.

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2.0 DEVELOPMENT OF A VISION

2.1 What is a Vision

The Vision is an initial declaration about the desired future of the Downtown. It is the document

through which the community declares to itself its aims for the Downtown, i.e. the end it has in

mind.

2.2 The Uxbridge Downtown Vision

On March 23, 2009, the Council of the Township of Uxbridge approved a Downtown Vision

Statement (Annex A). Rather than creating a new vision, the UDRC undertook a review of the 2009

Vision Statement.

The UDRC determined that revisions were required due to the opportunities for development in

the downtown, particularly in the “Lower Brock” area once the project to replace the culverts was

completed.

In addition to developing a new Vision Statement, the UDRC undertook the work of describing the

Uxbridge Downtown in the future.

2.3 Developing the Strategic Plan and Action Plan

It is understood as part of the UDR Project, the UDRC will revisit the vision in Stage 3. During Stage

3, the Strategic Plan will set out how to achieve the vision, which projects are priorities, and who

has the lead responsibility. Ideally the vision will serve in the revitalization process as a reference

guide to prioritize actions.

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3.0 THE VISION STATEMENT

Uxbridge features a vibrant and thriving downtown that is rich in history and recognized as an

inclusive and accessible community.

3.1 Description of Uxbridge Downtown in the future

1. The Downtown is a “Complete Community” that continually evolves to meet the emerging

needs of the broader community.

2. The historic buildings display their original architectural features; and newer buildings, while

more modern, are “sympathetic” to the heritage of the downtown.

3. Traffic flow, including parking, within the downtown embraces the importance of “Active

Transportation” and minimizes the flow of heavy trucks.

4. There is a Town Square that acts as an “Agora” and offers a year-round “Marché” for local

residents, farmers, businesses and visitors.

5. The Downtown offers a range of residential opportunities that take into consideration

accessibility requirements, economic factors and own and/ or rent options.

6. The Downtown provides a wide range of amenities which offer unique shopping experiences

while addressing the essential needs of residents. The promenade level is noted for thriving

retail shops

7. The Downtown is home to a range of culinary experiences in the form of restaurants, café’s,

bakeries, pubs, markets etc.

8. Uxbridge is recognized as “The Trail Capital of Canada” and the downtown is an integral

component of the trail system.

9. The Uxbridge Brook and Centennial Park provide a north – south focal point, to be enjoyed by

residents and visitors.

10. Visitors enjoyment of downtown Uxbridge’s extensive and diverse cultural and recreational

offerings is enabled by access to local overnight accommodation.

11. Uxbridge’s reputation as an artistic community is evident throughout the Downtown, supporting

many forms of artistic expression and incorporates “Viewable Art” in the public spaces.

12. The rear aspects of buildings offer a welcoming experience for residents and visitors using the

parking lots and laneways found throughout the downtown. A number of the businesses

provide rear entrances that are both attractive and accessible.

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NCES

3.2 Glossary

1. Active Transportation:

• Active transportation is using your own power to get from one place to another. This

includes:

o Walking, biking, skateboarding, in-line skating/rollerblading, jogging and running,

non-mechanized wheel chairing; snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

2. Agora:

• The Agora was a central public space in ancient Greek city-states. The literal meaning of the

word is "gathering place" or "assembly". The agora was the center of the athletic, artistic,

spiritual and political life in the city. The Ancient Agora of Athens is the best-known

example.

3. Complete Community:

• Complete Communities are places where homes, jobs, schools, community services, parks

and recreation facilities are easily accessible.

4. Marché:

• Refers to the place where producers (traders, artisans, peasants) come together to directly

offer their products to consumers.

5. Sympathetic Architecture:

• Basically, infill/restoration should attempt to harmonize the old and valued historic

buildings/spaces with the new, while at the same time respecting established design

elements (such as height, façade characteristics, setback and materials). Infill / restored

buildings should be compatible and work with the surrounding buildings and historic

context. The end result should be new structures that enhance and complement the existing

character of the area.

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II. ANNEX A – 2009 VISION

The Vision (Approved 2009)

Downtown Uxbridge is the vibrant focus of a thriving small town set in rolling hills

and reflecting its strong agricultural heritage.

There is an active street scene, with people - residents and visitors - shopping, browsing,

enjoying the company of friends in restaurants and cafes, and strolling along pleasant and attractive

streets. A range of stores, more varied and attractive than in the past, and other commercial

enterprises, many run by local entrepreneurs, has made it attractive as a place to shop and conduct

business. Vacant stores are a thing of the past. The pedestrian orientation of the downtown streets is

evident from the modest flow of traffic, with few trucks. A small park, or “town square” in the centre

of town provides a focal point for community activities, or for simply relaxing in a pleasant park setting.

The town’s farming roots are evident from the colourful farmer’s market that attracts both residents

and visitors, and provides a valuable means for area farmers to offer their produce. A grocery in the

downtown provides essentials without the need for a car.

The Uxbridge Brook, once completely out of sight in the downtown area, is once again visible,

providing an attractive natural feature to complement the large shade trees along the main streets.

The streets themselves reflect Uxbridge’s heritage and history, with buildings that have had their

exteriors remodeled or renovated in keeping with established heritage guidelines, and signage and

street furnishings in tasteful harmony. The rear aspects of buildings facing public areas are no longer

an eyesore. The older heritage buildings are complemented by some newer structures (some replacing

eyesores or deteriorating buildings), some of which may be more modern in design, but enhance the

character of the town.

Uxbridge’s reputation as an intensively artistic community is evident from the many works of public

art installed around the town, giving it a unique character. And its designation as “The Trail Capital of

Canada” is evident from the extensions of the extensive trail system that reach into the downtown,

enabling people to walk or bicycle from downtown into surrounding natural areas. Ease of access is

provided through numerous public parking areas, well-marked and attractive in design and

landscaping. Similarly, ease of access for the physically challenged is provided at most stores and all

public facilities. The downtown has a diversified population of residents, with accommodation suited

to varying economic levels.

In short, downtown Uxbridge is a place that attracts visitors and tourists, and tempts travelers to stop

and explore, with appropriate accommodation for those who wish to stay overnight. The downtown

offers a good livelihood to business enterprises located there, and provides a commercial and

recreational focus for residents.

Uxbridge is a small town in a rural community, with a downtown that has become an

attractive destination for visitors and an effective focus for residents, through a bold

approach by the Council and the community, including enlightened planning, good

design and wise investment of resources.