The city is taking the next steps to realize the Elgin Street Greenway project by preparing a detailed design that will bring the project to a shovel-ready state, according to a news release.

But, before that happens, the city will host a public open house on March 19 to hear ideas on how to transform Elgin Street into a green, sustainable, active and balanced transportation corridor.

Citizens are invited to drop by the gymnasium at St. Andrew’s Place at 111 Larch St., from 6-9 p.m.

“This is a great opportunity to be a part of some of the exciting projects coming to our downtown area over the next few years,” said Mayor Marianne Matichuk. “This open house will give citizens the chance to learn more about the Elgin Street Greenway project and share ideas with the project team.”

The Elgin Greenway Detailed Design Project is a partnership between the City of Greater Sudbury, Greater Sudbury Development Corporation, Rainbow Routes Association, Downtown Sudbury Business Improvement Area and Downtown Village Development Corporation. Funding is provided, in part, by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport.

The project is part of the Downtown Master Plan and Action Strategy, endorsed by Greater Sudbury City Council in April 2012. The plan establishes a blueprint to transform the downtown core into an active, safe and diverse destination for people, businesses, not-for-profit agencies and new investments.

For more information on the Downtown Master Plan and Action Strategy, visit www.growdowntown.ca.