Good morning, this is your Burlington Local Frequency for Friday, February 7, 2025.
Today, we're kicking off with some exciting news about the city's revitalization efforts. The $30 million TIF-funded Great Streets Main Street project is well underway, aiming to comprehensively renew key downtown infrastructure. This transformation will bring new bike lanes, public art, gardens, and wider sidewalks, making downtown Burlington even more vibrant and accessible.
In other news, the city has been working diligently to address homelessness. Since June 1, 185 households have been connected to permanent housing, which is a significant achievement. However, unsheltered homelessness has seen a 500% increase since the exiting of 800 Vermonters from motels, highlighting the ongoing challenges in this area.
For those looking for something to do this weekend, Foam Brewers has a fantastic lineup of events. Tonight, catch Frankie White & The Fuse at 8:00 pm for a night of geek folk melodies and 8-bit vibes. And if you're planning ahead, mark your calendars for February 14, when Avi Salloway & friends will bring art-rock and global grooves to the stage.
But before you head out to enjoy the music, why not stop by the 5th Annual Winterlude Festival in Burlington's Old East End? Today, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, enjoy the decorative lighting, hand-crafted vellum lanterns, special ice-luminaires, music, and singing while sipping a hot beverage around the warming area fire pit. Tomorrow, from 11 am to 3 pm, take advantage of free loaner equipment for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding, along with hot beverages, chili, and treats.
In community news, Mayor Miro Weinberger has been actively engaging with various initiatives. Recently, he announced over $44 million in savings for Burlington’s taxpayers, driven by favorable lending terms as a result of the City’s restored Aa3 credit rating. Additionally, the city has been working on expanding renewable energy sources, with Burlington Electric Department procuring significant new renewable energy to meet load growth from electrification.
Finally, a reminder that the city is always looking for ways to improve and engage with its residents. The recent six-month public engagement effort for the Moran FRAME has concluded with a long-term vision for year-round recreation at this cultural destination.
This has been Burlington Local Frequency. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
