June 1, 2021

Downtown Walking Tour

The Town is exploring ways to revamp infrastructure in Downtown Erie to meet the future needs of this growing area. Aided by input and ideas from those who live, work and play in Downtown, we'll answer the questions of "what's next?" for Downtown Erie.

This effort kicks off with a series of walking tours (in-person or virtually) of the specific areas and topics up for consideration. These tours are led by the Town of Erie Economic Development Team.

In-Person Tours - July Only

The Downtown Infrastructure Improvements effort will evaluate and forecast the changing needs of our Town and involve residents and stakeholders in the conversation. We want to understand what is important as we look to the future. The key to this effort will be open, transparent dialogue about how to balance our priorities within a limited budget.

In-person tours are available in July on select Saturdays, Tuesday mornings, and Thursday evenings. Or, tour any time virtually from the comfort of your home. Visit the webpage to see available times and RSVP.

Virtual Tour

The virtual tour allows you to explore the proposed improvements along nine stops in Downtown Erie in your own time with your own device. View images of the proposed improvements with an explanation of the details alongside the tour map of Downtown. Begin the Virtual Tour of Downtown Improvements and then complete the budget simulation!

Key Improvements

The Erie Economic Development Team began an in-depth look at current infrastructure, the rapidly evolving demographics of the region, and future trends and best practices to identify a handful of scenarios for the public, stakeholders, and ultimately the Board of Trustees to consider. View the key proposed improvements.

Budget Simulator

Budget accountability and transparency are part of a well-rounded practice of good governance. The Town created an online simulation tool you can use to add money to favorite improvements or take away from less-favored improvements. That's right, with this tool, 'Balancing Act,' the budget is adjusted according to preferences and results are submitted to the Board of Trustees! We hope you'll enjoy providing direction on where financial resources should be applied while also noting some of the constraints around budgeting and financial planning. View the Budget Simulator.

NEW Downtown Event Grant

For a limited time, the Town of Erie is awarding grant funds to community organizations that are hosting events specifically in the Downtown Erie area. Applicants may receive up to $10,000 upon approval for their event in Downtown Erie. Applicants must complete the Special Event permit process, in addition to submitting the Application for the Downtown Event Grant by June 9, 2021. For more information, contact economicdevelopment@erieco.gov.