News

The City of Kitchener is inviting applications from local artists for several exciting opportunities at the 44 Gaukel Creative Workspace (44G). Apply for the 44G Mentorship Matchup program, The Beasting digital mural mashup or the Ontario Culture Days interior and exterior mural opportunities.

Kitchener, ON – The City of Kitchener has been awarded gold status by the Bicycle Friendly Communities (BFC) Program, administered by the Share the Road Cycling Coalition. This designation recognizes Kitchener’s significant progress in advancing safe, connected and equitable cycling infrastructure.

The Gold designation places Kitchener among the leading municipalities in Ontario for cycling excellence and reflects the City’s sustained investment in high‑quality facilities, education initiatives and long‑term planning. This recognition is the direct result of years of investment into a range of infrastructure improvements outlined in the award-winning Cycling and Trails Master Plan, which prioritizes a comprehensive, all‑ages‑and‑abilities network.

As part of the City of Kitchener’s policy to include public art in new projects, the City has agreed to commission a series of five playful bronze sculptures by Canadian artist Pierre Poussin for the outdoor entrances of the Cowan Recreation Centre, opening late 2026. The artwork, titled Let’s Play!, will welcome visitors with imaginative animal characters captured mid-sport, celebrating movement, teamwork and the joy of play.  

Key decisions of Council is a summary of major discussion items presented at Kitchener City Council meetings. It is circulated immediately following each meeting. Please refer to the minutes for an official record of the meeting.  

Students with a business idea are encouraged to apply to the Summer Company program, an exciting opportunity to start and run a real business over the summer with funding, mentorship and hands‑on experience. Applications are open now and close May 15 at 11:59 p.m. 

The City of Kitchener has started gathering community feedback to inform its 2027–2030 Strategic Plan. 

The Strategic Plan sets Council’s priorities, goals and actions for each four‑year term. The upcoming plan will build on the success of the current 2023–2026 Strategic Plan and carry forward Kitchener’s long‑term vision of “building a city for everyone where, together, we take care of the world around us – and each other.” 

Early insights from a statistically significant community survey led by Abacus Data signal the strengths, opportunities and priorities residents have for the City for the next four years. Abacus Data surveyed 861 Kitchener residents using a mix of phone and online methods. Survey insights will be presented during a Special Council meeting on May 4, 2026. 

May 3-9 is Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada. This week, take a moment to review your emergency plans and tools to help you be ready to protect yourself, your family and your home during an emergency. 

The City of Kitchener values and appreciates youth across the city and has dedicated the entire month of May to celebrating them. Kitchener youth, ages 12 to 24, can join local events, workshops, and recreational activities, free of charge, during Youth Month from May 1 to 31. It is also an opportunity for young people to share ideas, try new things and participate in community life.   

Free Youth Events (May 1-31)

Join us at our community centres for free fun, including board game nights, pizza parties, basketball battles, art workshops, multisport, yoga and more! View the full list of programs and events happening at Kitchener.ca/YouthMonth.