Mayor Berry Vrbanovic reveals Kitchener’s 2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan

On Thursday afternoon, Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic revealed the 2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan at this year’s State of the City event. 

The mayor was accompanied by council members and explained details of the plan which highlight the city’s goals over the next 20 years. 

“This plan is more than just a document, this is our collective and shared vision for the future of this community, and our road map for how we will get there,” explained Vrbanovic.

The mayor continued to share examples for the vision for Kitchener in the next 20 years. For the city of Kitchener, Vrbanovic explained that tackling the housing crisis is a key priority.  

“We’ve pledged to do our part to build 35 thousand homes by 2031, working closely with all orders of government, the private sector, not for profit sector, educational institutions and Kitchener residents. Of course we shared big news last Friday, with the announcement of $42.4 million in housing accelerator funding from the federal government to fast track the construction of more than 1200 new homes in Kitchener by early 2027,” said Vrbanovic.

He also emphasized the importance of building a greener city to lower the impact on the planet and adapt to climate change.  He explained “This includes adding trees to our urban areas with the goal of growing our tree canopy to 30 percent in each ward by 2050.” There is a goal in the future to also build a major new park near the Grand River.

Some other plans for the city’s future include building a more economically thriving city by accelerating commercial building approvals and implementing an entertainment venue management structure. 

The city also plans on advancing truth and reconciliation and finding ways to use recreational facilities and community centres to provide newcomers with support they need to help them feel more connected with the region.

“As we look ahead to the future, the energy and enthusiasm I have seen for this community from residents, business owners, students, community partners and council is undeniable. Across Canada, our community isn’t just keeping up, it’s setting the pace,” stated Vrbanovic.

If you want to read the entire 2023 – 2026 Strategic Plan you can find it here.