The City of Maple Ridge is encouraging residents to come to the downtown core and feel safe in their city, with the return of the Be Downtown program.
Starting this Wednesday (May 20), then continuing on alternating Wednesdays throughout the summer, residents and businesses are invited to visit pop-up booths where they can connect, share feedback, and enter to win local prizes.
Be Downtown is a collaborative effort developed with Maple Ridge RCMP, Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association (DMRBIA), and the Chamber of Commerce. Its focus is on enhancing community safety, supporting local businesses, and creating a welcoming, thriving downtown.
“Be Downtown continues to be an important way for us to connect directly with the community,” said Chad Cowles, manager of community safety and well-being. “Now in its third year, this initiative strengthens the relationships between our Bylaw Officers, Police, Fire, businesses, visitors, and residents. We’ll be out in the community throughout the summer, listening, supporting, and working together to ensure downtown remains a safe and welcoming place.”
Pop-up community safety booths provide residents and businesses with a convenient way to connect with Bylaw Officers, Community Safety Officers, RCMP, Fire Services, DMRBIA, and Chamber of Commerce to:
• Report safety concerns or problem properties.
• Access information and connect with support services and outreach teams.
• Experience a visible, friendly presence that fosters trust and safety.
• Share feedback to help improve the downtown experience,
Visitors can also enter a grand prize draw for two VIP tickets to the City’s Our Neck of the Woods concert, along with City swag and gift cards to local restaurants and shops.
Dates and locations (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)
May 20 – Brickwater, 11897 227 Street
June 3 – Tim Hortons, 22219 Lougheed Hwy. (at 222 Street)
June 17 – Haney Place Mall, 11900 Haney Place
July 15 – Memorial Peace Park (part of World Cup soccer viewing party)
July 29 – Food Truck Spot, corner of Dewdney Trunk Road and 228 Street
Aug. 12 – Valley Fair Mall, 22709 Lougheed Hwy.
Aug. 26 – Maple Ridge Square Shopping Mall, 22441 Dewdney Trunk Rd
Sept. 9 – Near corner of Plaza Street and Dewdney Trunk Road
“Be Downtown has become an important part of how we showcase everything our downtown has to offer,” said Nicole Archer, executive director of the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association. “We are excited to continue working with the City to welcome residents and visitors to experience our local shops, restaurants, and events. Downtown Maple Ridge is inviting, vibrant, and entertaining.”