Machell’s Alley

Aurora prepares Machell’s Alley to welcome residents and visitors this summer!

Back alleys are traditionally not where most people want to hang out, but increasingly cities and towns across North America and around the world are revitalizing them to provide vibrant, outdoor spaces in these underutilized areas teeming with untapped potential.

These activations have been met with huge success by their communities who benefit from increased public space and rejuvenation of areas that in turn benefits the local economy. This is why I am thrilled to share that Aurora will be joining this list, as we prepare Machell’s Alley for residents and visitors to enjoy this summer.

The result of an innovative, multi-organizational collaboration, Machell’s Alley is a temporary donated greenspace, in the vacant lot at 15217 Yonge Street, in the heart of Downtown Aurora’s historic district. The property owner, Yonge Developments Inc., is providing the space for public use while waiting for social and economic conditions to warrant the development of a new, exciting building in this location.

Machell’s Alley will be used as an open-air seating space for downtown visitors to enjoy local food, entertainment and ambience. Staff are working hard to prepare the space with signage, beautiful greenery, hanging lights and picnic tables with brightly coloured umbrellas. The space is anticipated to open by the end of May, pending COVID restrictions and health measures.

The Machell’s Alley revitalization is an excellent example of collaboration to support local businesses and would not have been possible without the Aurora Economic Development Corporation, Yonge Developments Inc., the Downtown Aurora BIA, Aurora Chamber of Commerce, Explore Aurora and Central Counties Tourism. By working together we can continue to build awareness of Downtown Aurora while providing a vibrant and inviting space for residents and visitors.

I look forward to seeing many familiar faces as we all enjoy Machell’s Alley this summer!

Share this post
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
WhatsApp
Email

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe

If you’d like to keep in touch with the Mayor and receive updates, please add your e-mail.

Recent Posts

Housing Pledge Approved

I have officially shared Aurora’s housing pledge with the Province, as per their request, by submitting it to Minister Paul Calandra and the Ontario government following this week’s Council meeting. The Town of Aurora’s municipal Housing Pledge received approval from

Read More »

General Committee Update – Sept 19, 2023

During this weeks GC meeting, the topic of introducing a new service, specifically a pilot program for windrow snow removal tailored to seniors and residents facing mobility and accessibility challenges, was discussed. As Residents know, For 20 years now, snow

Read More »

2023 Aurora Mayor’s Charity Golf Classic

The 2023 Annual Aurora Mayor’s Charity Golf Classic took place yesterday, and was a fantastic fall day of golf and more importantly a day of giving! This years event raised over 80K!! The funds raised during this event will go

Read More »