MUSKOKA WHARF
REVITALIZATION PROJECT
Project Updates - June 2020
Revitalization Plan Next Steps

The draft Wharf Revitalization Plan was completed in March but the final stages of consultation and endorsement were delayed as  staff and Council adjusted their p riorities in order to respond to the pandemic emergency.

There is a lot of momentum behind this project, both from the Town and from our stakeholders, and the implementation process will move forward when Council is able to return to more regular business.  

The Muskoka Wharf is a vibrant and important asset to Gravenhurst and it will play a critical role in the economic recovery needed as a result of the unpredictable circumstances caused by the pandemic. This Revitalization Plan provides shared goals to help unify all the partners  in order to ensure our efforts to improve the Wharf are focused. 

It has been a pleasure to be part of this important project and I truly appreciate the energy and support from all of the people who participated and provided feedback. My role as the project coordinator ends June 25th but the implementation of the Plan will be incorporated into the relevant work-plans of Town staff. Moving forward please direct any questions or concerns to the Manager of Economic Development Jeff Loney. 

Sincerely, 
Leanne Fetterley
Wharf Revitalization Coordinator
Summary of the Draft Plan

The plan includes an introduction to the Wharf, an overview of the data and key findings from the consultation process, and a comprehensive plan which includes a vision, mission, goals, market position, rationale, and summary of strategic actions.  

We are excited to share the highlights of the plan here: 
Vision
The Muskoka Wharf will become a year-round shopping and recreation destination for tourists and residents.

Mission
Increase number of visitors, stays, and spending by situating the Wharf as a tourism destination and integral part of Gravenhurst's commercial core.

Goals

1. Increase number & types of businesses


2. Create more things to do & reasons to visit
3. Reduce seasonality & extend hours of operation
4. Revitalize physical layout & appearance
5. Enhance on-site experience & increase promotion

6. Strengthen two-way links to other areas of Gravenhurst

7. Unify leadership & management 



The 7 goals are supported by 13 objectives. You can find an overview of the vision, mission, goals and objectives in the draft Executive Summary. 

Support Your Gravenhurst Wharf! 

Recently the Province has started the process of reducing restrictions and emergency orders related to the pandemic in order to re-open our economy. Yet, the impact of COVID-19 means that this is not going to be a normal year or a normal summer in Muskoka and the recovery efforts may take much longer. 

Like the rest of Gravenhurst, Ontario and the world, our businesses, attractions and events at the Wharf have been severely affected by this situation. Owners and operators have been working hard to adapt to the ever-changing situation.

Although some events are cancelled for this year, the Farmers' Market is running this summer for food vendors only, and with special social distancing and sanitation measures in place. 

The Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre is currently closed but they hope to be cruising this summer and to open the Discovery Centre when it is safe to do so. Please stay tuned and make sure to follow the progress of the construction of the Stanley Meek Gallery and Wanda III boathouse on their facebook page. 

Businesses are also operating, as per the regulations set out by the Province. Whether it's offering take-out food options, reduced patrons in retail stores, hosting yoga outside or creating additional patio space for outdoor dining, the safety of staff and patrons is the top priority. Follow the Muskoka Wharf Association on Facebook for updates.



Please support your Wharf businesses and attractions! 
Project Background

The Town of Gravenhurst is leading an eight-month project to develop a plan to outline potential goals and strategic actions to revitalize the Muskoka Wharf.  R ead the  media release  to learn about the project background.  

 

 
Contact the Manager of Economic Development:
Jeff Loney
705-687-2230 x 280