Village Media donates $150K toward new downtown plaza

Village Media, the local news company that operates SooToday, is donating $150,000 toward the soon-to-be-opened downtown plaza.

The contribution includes $50,000 earmarked for the plaza’s new stage and screen, and $100,000 worth of in-kind contributions over 10 years to support advertising placements on Village Media’s online platforms. 

“The Village Media team is thrilled to be part of this exciting addition to the downtown that will enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike,” said Jeff Elgie, the CEO of Village Media, in a news release issued by the city. “Village Media headquarters is located in downtown Sault Ste. Marie, and we have always been committed to strengthening the communities we serve. We see this sponsorship as a testament to our dedication to fostering a thriving downtown and showcasing local talent and creativity.”

Born digital, Village Media owns and operates two dozen news websites across Ontario, including Sudbury.com, OrilliaMatters, BurlingtonToday and The Trillium based at Queen's Park. Our award-winning reporters and editors are committed to strengthening the communities they serve by providing accurate, reliable, up-to-the-minute coverage of the stories that matter most: the ones closest to home.

Officially set to open on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m., the $11.6-million plaza has received substantial support from local businesses and community development organizations, amassing an unprecedented $1.2-million for a municipal project.

“The plaza’s screen and stage will serve as a dynamic platform for cultural events, live performances, and community gatherings,” said Tom Vair, the city’s deputy CAO. “Village Media's contribution plays an important role in ensuring its success. The creation of this vibrant public space will have a significant impact on local economies, stimulating business investments and tourism within our downtown. We are grateful to Village Media for recognizing the invaluable impact this space will have on our community.”

Next week’s grand opening will align with the Downtown Association's Hallowe’en on Queen event. For additional details regarding the downtown plaza project, visit saultstemarie.ca/downtownplaza.

To check out SooToday’s drone footage of the new plaza, click HERE.