The Board of Management for the Downtown Orillia Business Improvement Area (DOBIA) is happy to share some information about the colourful work that has been happening in downtown Orillia in the spring and summer of 2026.
In co-operation with the City of Orillia, the maintenance team of the DOBIA has replaced some of the old metal garbage cans in the downtown with new garbage cans that are made with recycled materials and have a more pleasing aesthetic. The cans that have been removed will be used for parts to help repair the remaining garbage cans that have yet to be replaced.
The DOBIA Beautification, Maintenance and Streetscape (BMS) Committee have also been busy as they purchased 32 new planters that have been secured to the benches along Mississaga Street. The committee also purchased flowers and greenery to put in the planters which were planted by DOBIA and Streets Alive Productions volunteers.
Additionally, the DOBIA wanted to recognize the beautiful flowering baskets that are grown, installed and watered by the City of Orillia staff. These baskets are always very popular with residents, visitors and businesses themselves adding a colourful, welcoming element to the downtown streetscape.
“Beautification of the downtown is one of the most important and consistent responsibilities that the DOBIA looks after,” said Doug Cooper, DOBIA’s board chair.
“These types of investments combined with the diligent work of our DOBIA maintenance team are paramount to the success of our downtown. Our maintenance team led by Rick Elliott are the first boots on the ground every morning, they keep us up to date with any pending issues and work tirelessly to keep our downtown beautiful. Cheers to them,’ said Cooper.
