Safe & Engaging Streets
WHAT IS THE WELCOMING STREET INITIATIVE (WSI)?
The WSI was designed to ensure that downtown Guelph is safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all community members.
WHAT IS THE PROGRAM PURPOSE AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES?
Purpose: A Peer Outreach Worker works to support business owners by responding to situations that do not require the help of police. In addition, the Worker engages with vulnerable individuals to ensure they are connected with the services they need.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES:
- Business owners feel supported and have access to the information/training they need
- Equity deserving individuals feel supported, and are linked with the services they need
- The downtown core is safe and inclusive for all community members
Visit the Welcoming Streets to read more.
OTHER COMMUNITY RESOURCES:
For information about emergency shelters, call:
- HERE 24/7: 1-844-437-3247
If you see someone on the street in need of assistance (not an emergency response), call:
- Guelph Police Service non-emergency line, 519-824-1212
- Wellington County OPP non-emergency line, 1-888-310-1122
- HERE 24/7, 1-844-437-3247
- Call 911 if it is a life threatening emergency situation
Supportive Community Connections in Downtown Guelph (2021/2022) – Digital Booklet
Supportive Community Connections – Pamphlet 2021-2022-compressed
Business Tips for De-Escalation – PDF PRINT
Business Homelessness Tool Kit, OBIAA – PDF
WORKING TOGETHER:
If you would like information about Safe & Engaging Streets programs and initiatives contact: info@downtownguelph.com
GUELPH POLICE SERVICES IN THE CORE
‘The unit consists of four officers and one downtown liaison officer assigned to patrol the area inside of Woolwich, Wellington, Norfolk and Gordon streets.
It was formed in response to growing safety issues downtown, but also to help address drug use and homelessness that has been seen in the area.
While making arrests and enforcing the law is part of the role, the focus is more about building relationships with businesses, organizations, residents and visitors downtown.’
StopGap Ramps
Getting around in Downtown Guelph is getting easier. Our community has been working hard towards a barrier-free downtown. In 2016 StopGap ramps were built and customized for 40+ downtown businesses.
The DGBA, with input from the provincial government and accessibility action groups, produced a business tool kit. The tool kit aims to educate businesses and offer advice on how best to accommodate those with additional needs, whether they be physical or intellectual. It also includes a list of resources for both businesses and customers.
Links:
All Access Business Tool Kit 2019 Final
The Business of Accessibility HandbooK: How to Make Your Main Street Business Accessibility Smart
Downtown Guelph Accessibility Map
This map, accurate as of June 2016, indicates the locations of accessible parking spots, benches, curb ramps, stores that have StopGap ramps, and accessible public washrooms.
