Arts and Culture Takes Centre Stage at the City of Cambridge

Cambridge, Ontario. (June 6, 2024) - Arts and Culture will soon take a lead role at the City of Cambridge following Council’s approval of the Arts and Culture Action Plan, which highlights five key priority areas. The goal of the plan is to make Cambridge a thriving centre of creative and cultural development by making it a destination for artists and creatives, developing new and leveraging existing partnerships, enhancing how local cultural spaces are used, and clarifying the City’s role in arts and culture within Cambridge.

The five Pillars of the plan include:

1. Celebrate Cambridge’s Difference and Diversity
2. Bolster Municipal Support for an Arts Friendly City
3. Activate Public Spaces through Creative Placemaking and Public Art
4. Enhance Community Connection, Communication, and Collaboration
5. Strengthen Special Events

“This action plan is the infrastructure of the human spirit that will ensure Arts and Culture continue to play a critical role in the reversal of the social recession we have been in,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “As we rediscover and build upon the joy of “The Cambridge Experience” this plan sets a roadmap that will ensure the overall well-being of our community and help attract visitors to our beautiful city.”

The Plan was developed in a five-phase process, which involved significant research into arts and culture in Cambridge, a fulsome background review, and an extensive engagement process.

“The implementation of this Plan means that residents and visitors to Cambridge will be able to enjoy the city to its fullest and will make memories with their families at our many cultural events, celebrations and destinations,” said Lesley Head, Director of Recreation and Culture. “Our priorities directly support the City’s Strategic Plan as we look to bolster exciting city-wide programs and partnerships. Thank you to all the individuals and groups who helped to develop this plan and who will be integral in bringing it to life going forward.”

The Action Plan provides the Recreation and Culture Division the framework to identify priorities, make progress and evaluate outcomes. The strategic planning process allows for all stakeholders to contribute to, understand and play a role in achieving the vision expressed by our community. It strongly aligns with the Cambridge Connected Strategic Plan 2024-2026 by supporting spaces where people connect and building a vibrant and resilient city.

To view the full Arts and Culture Action plan, visit cambridge.ca/culture.