Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

One of the key functions of the Township’s economic development role is to ensure existing businesses are supported and well positioned to maintain and grow their employment opportunities and support a competitive business environment.

The CIP is a planning tool to support strategic community investment priorities. A CIP provides a framework for public investment opportunities in the public realm and the provision of incentive programs to assist the private sector to stimulate redevelopment and to facilitate property improvements.

CIP applications are accepted in two intake windows during the year. The Spring 2025 intake window is currently open and will be accepting applications until May 16, 2025. Find more information about each of the programs in the policy, or fill out the form to apply today!

Community Improvement Plan

Revitalization Projects

Urban Design Guidelines

Streetscape Plans and Designs

Business Incentive Programs

Public Realm Revitalization Projects Underway

New Street Furniture - Muskoka Chairs

Wayfinding Signage

Bike Racks and Bike Repair Stations

Lock Street Pedestrian Area Pilot Project

New Crosswalks in Downtown

Year Round Washrooms (Windsor Park/Hanna Park)

Private Sector Incentive Programs

The Township has officially launched the business incentive programs for the private sector to encourage reinvestment in privately owned properties located in the CIP areas, especially where it will enhance the public realm and make a positive contribution to the overall vitality of the downtown areas.

Incentive Program Streams:

Attainable or Employee Housing

This will help to increase the number and quality of dwelling units available for workers and residents of the Township.

Tools available:

- Fee Rebate
- Construction Grant
  - Grant for up to 25% of eligible costs to a maximum of $40,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $20,000.
- Tax Increment Grant
  - Tax increment grant valuing between $150,000 and $900,000, payable over a period of 5 years.

Shoreline Structure

This will encourage the development of additional day-use docking and/or boat slips for operators of pleasure craft and boat taxis travelling to the Community Improvement Plan area.

Tools available:

- Fee Rebate
- Construction Grant
  - Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $10,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $2,000.

Building Structural and Mechanical Upgrades

This will support upgrades and investment in structural and mechanical components of commercial properties to enhance business viability, building integrity, and year-round use.

Tools available:

- Fee Rebate
- Construction Grant
  - Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $25,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $10,000.

Building Accessibility and Facade Upgrades

This encourages building owners to improve accessibility for persons with disabilities and to enhance the exterior façade of their building.

Tools available:

- Fee Rebate
- Construction Grant
  - Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $25,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $5,000.

Ecological Space Improvements

This helps to improve the landscape between commercial business properties and public properties, highlighting environmental sustainability, natural beauty, and local culture.

Tools available:

- Construction Grant
  - Grant for up to 50% of eligible costs to a maximum of $10,000 per property. The minimum grant amount to be awarded under this incentive program is $1,000.

How to Apply

Review program details and check submission dates.
Book pre-consultation meeting with Economic Development Office
Collect supporting documents (plans, photos, quotes, etc.)
Complete online application form

View Program Details

Apply Now