Latest THRIVE project supports innovative artistic elements to encourage increased vitality
COURTENAY, 25 January 2022 – Three interactive mural and lighting installations will be added to a City of Langford Station Avenue Revitalization Plan to energize and animate an under-used section of their downtown core, thanks to a $25,000 grant from the THRIVE Small Capital Program.
Each of the three murals will focus on the area’s train history, the local Indigenous culture and the arts, and will be designed to allow viewers to become part of the mural experience. Options for the lighting installations will feature a singing tree, an interactive drum organ and an immersive tunnel.
“Throughout the pandemic we heard from the regional tourism organizations that they needed investment to support regional projects. THRIVE Small Capital is an excellent example of how tourism infrastructure will support projects that showcase more of what the region has to offer, strengthen community connection and experiences, plus create jobs,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Langford’s new arts and light installation in its downtown core is an innovative example of how communities are using their ingenuity following the pandemic to build back stronger.”
The light installations will engage people through a variety of interactions. Lights installed in an existing tree will change colour in response to surrounding voices (or singing) and movement. An organ made of tubes of light will emit changing sounds and light patterns when users touch a keyboard pad. A piano synched with strings of lights erected in the shape of a tent or tunnel will create beautiful light movements and colour patterns when played.
“The City of Langford is grateful for the support of the THRIVE project funding contributing to the interactive lighting components of the Station Avenue revitalization project. We are excited to bring this dynamic cultural precinct to downtown Langford next Spring for residents and visitors to enjoy,” says City of Langford Mayor, Stew Young.
The project, located along Station Avenue between Peatt Road and Veteran’s Memorial Parkway, will provide an inclusive, welcoming, and accessible location for impromptu gatherings and organized events.
“The Station Avenue revitalization project adds another all-season visitor and resident attraction to this commercial area,” says Anthony Everett, President & CEO, Tourism Vancouver Island. “The proposed Station Avenue revitalization plans will create engaging day and night gathering places, business incubator opportunities for local entrepreneurs, and event space in a safe, outdoor, accessible and inclusive location.”
The overall project proposes artist pop-ups, business stands, food trucks with al fresco dining options, entertainment on the performance stage, a restored train station, a fenced dog park, a performance stage, and parking.
“We are delighted to see how communities are finding new ways to elevate public spaces in alignment with their community assets, history and culture,” says Line Robert, ICET CEO.
The THRIVE Small Capital Program was launched in late May through the Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative to help stimulate and promote vitality in downtowns, Main Streets and business districts across the region. One-stop funding support of up to 100% of eligible project costs is available thanks to a joint collaboration with the Island Coastal Economic Trust, Tourism Vancouver Island (TVI) and the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains tourism region (managed by Destination BC).
All applications to the THRIVE Small Capital Funding Stream will now be accepted on an ongoing basis until the program is fully subscribed.
For more information on the THRIVE Small Capital Funding Stream, please visit our website: www.islandcoastaltrust.ca
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About the Island Coastal Economic Trust
Created and capitalized by the Province of BC in 2006, the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) mission is to create a more diverse and globally competitive Island and Coastal economy. In partnership with local and regional governments, non-profits and Indigenous communities, ICET serves over half a million residents. Funding and support for economic infrastructure and other economic diversification initiatives is delivered through a unique community centered decision-making process. Since inception, ICET has approved more than $55 million in funding for over 280 initiatives. These investments have leveraged over $270 million in new investment into the region creating more than 2600 construction phase jobs and 2750 long-term permanent jobs.
For further information:
Hilary Muth, Communications Coordinator
Island Coastal Economic Trust
Tel. 250-871-7797 (Ext. 228)
