Maple Ridge, B.C., May 14, 2026—Starting May 20 and alternating Wednesdays throughout the summer, residents and businesses are invited to visit pop-up booths in downtown Maple Ridge to connect, share feedback, and enter to win local prizes as part of the Be Downtown initiative, now in its third year.
The City of Maple Ridge is relaunching Be Downtown, a collaborative effort developed with Maple Ridge RCMP, Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association (DMRBIA), and the Chamber of Commerce. The initiative continues to focus on enhancing community safety, supporting local businesses, and creating a welcoming, thriving downtown for everyone.
"Over the past two years, Be Downtown has helped bring more people into our city centre and strengthened connections across the community," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "As we enter our third year, we're building on that momentum, continuing to invest in safety, support our local businesses, and create a downtown that people feel proud of and are excited to experience."
Enhanced Investments in Community Safety
This year's Be Downtown builds on the City's continued investment in public safety, including additional RCMP members, expanded Community Safety Officer hours, and supporting vulnerable populations through a balance of enforcement, outreach, and services.
"Be Downtown continues to be an important way for us to connect directly with the community," said Chad Cowles, Manager of Community Safety and Well-Being. "Now in its third year, this initiative strengthens the relationships between our Bylaw Officers, Police, Fire, businesses, visitors, and residents. We'll be out in the community throughout the summer, listening, supporting, and working together to ensure downtown remains a safe and welcoming place."
Stop By a Pop-Up Community Safety Booth
Pop-up community safety booths provide residents and businesses with a convenient way to connect with Bylaw Officers, Community Safety Officers, RCMP, Fire Services, DMRBIA, and Chamber of Commerce to:
- report safety concerns or problem properties
- access information and connect with support services and outreach teams
- experience a visible, friendly presence that fosters trust and safety
- share feedback to help improve the downtown experience
Visitors can also enter a grand prize draw for two VIP tickets to the City's Our Neck of the Woods event, along with City swag and gift cards to local restaurants and shops.
Dates and Locations (10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.)
- May 20 – Brickwater, 11897 227 Street
- June 3 – Tim Hortons, 22219 Lougheed Hwy. (at 222 Street)
- June 17 – Haney Place Mall, 11900 Haney Place
- July 15 – Memorial Peace Park (part of World Cup soccer viewing party)
- July 29 – Food Truck Spot, corner of Dewdney Trunk Road and 228 Street
- August 12 – Valley Fair Mall, 22709 Lougheed Hwy.
- August 26 – Maple Ridge Square Shopping Mall, 22441 Dewdney Trunk Rd
- September 9 – Near corner of Plaza Street and Dewdney Trunk Road
Participation of first responder staff is contingent upon any emerging incidents.
Additional Community Safety Measures
In addition to the Be Downtown pop-up information booths, the City is also coordinating and supporting a number of other targeted initiatives:
- Increased foot and bike patrols by Bylaw Officers, Community Safety Officers, and the RCMP Community Response Unit
- Coordinated outreach with Fraser Health and the RCMP Mental Health Unit
- Launched a Social Wellbeing pilot project to enhance service delivery to marginalized populations
- Support from the Integrated Safety Ambassador Team (ISAT) and Ridge FYRST youth support team
- Ongoing monitoring of priority properties through a coordinated City-led response
Beautification and Downtown Pride
As part of the initiative, City crews continue seasonal beautification efforts, street cleaning, maintenance, and the installation of hundreds of hanging baskets and floral displays. More than 200 Bold By Nature street banners designed by local artists are also displayed downtown.
Events and Local Promotions
Be Downtown supports a range of community events and promotions, including the return of the Social Saturdays summer series and free weekend parking at the City-owned underground lot at the Maple Ridge Business Centre from April through October.
"Be Downtown has become an important part of how we showcase everything our downtown has to offer," said Nicole Archer, Executive Director of the Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association. "We are excited to continue working with the City to welcome residents and visitors to experience our local shops, restaurants, and events. Downtown Maple Ridge is inviting, vibrant, and entertaining."
To plan your visit and explore downtown events, visit MapleRidge.ca/Explore. To learn more about local businesses and promotions, visit MapleRidge.ca/BeDowntown.
For more information, contact Chad Cowles, City’s Manager of Community Safety and Wellbeing at CCowles@MapleRidge.ca.
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Media Contact
Anna Lilly, Director, External Relations
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