East City Village Business Improvement Area and Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area Announce One-Year Pilot Merger

The East City Village Business Improvement Area (VBIA) has merged with Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) under a one-year pilot agreement, announced on Tuesday.

The DBIA now represents businesses on both sides of the Otonabee River, marking the first time in its 44-year history that the original boundary has been expanded for a one-year pilot. File Photo.

According to a press release the merger aims to unite two distinct districts under a shared vision for local business support, advocacy and community development.

This allows East City businesses to participate in DBIA-run programs and promotions.

“We’re thrilled to welcome East City’s vibrant business community into the DBIA. East City has always been a beloved and essential part of Peterborough with a strong sense of place,” said Nour Mazloum, DBIA executive director. “We’re excited to bring together two really vibrant and connected communities to elevate our collective impact and work together to strengthen our local economy. This merger will create even more opportunities for businesses to thrive. I think this is a really exciting next step in Peterborough’s story.”

The Peterborough DBIA was established in 1981 to support and revitalize the downtown core. East City was not included in the original map due to its distinct geography and character according to VBIA. In the following years, East City merchants created their own volunteer-led BIA to advocate for area improvements, while maintaining a separate identity and operation.

“This merger represents an opportunity for East City to access new tools and larger resources, while still celebrating the charm and community that makes our side of the river so special,” said Cassia Piper, VBIA chair. “The Village BIA has been shaped by neighbours who care deeply about their community. Merging with the DBIA builds on that legacy. It opens new doors and offers more chances to be a part of the big-picture vision for downtown.”

The merger means East City businesses will now be included in initiatives such as the Boro Gift Card program and the annual Holiday Shopping Passport.

During the pilot period, the DBIA will work closely with East City business owners to ensure local priorities are recognized, supported and celebrated.

“This isn’t about dissolving identities, it’s about strengthening them,” said Mazloum. “We believe this partnership will amplify what makes East City unique while connecting these unique communities through shared opportunity.”

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