Canvassing Interest The origins of the College Promenade BIA began in the summer of 2004, around the time that current director John P. Ferreira purchased a property for his law practice in the area. As he explains, “More than ever, I felt like this was my community. I wanted to do everything possible to improve it, not just for economic reasons but because now it had become my home.” John knew of the success of other BIAs, and wanted to emulate that success on College Street west. John began by corresponding with Ron Nash, of the City of Toronto BIA Office. “Ron Nash’s knowledge and guidance was instrumental in the BIA’s formation; he continues to be an invaluable member of the BIA team to this day.” At the same time, John personally visited each and every business along College Street west of Shaw Street, to inquire about whether there was broader interest in forming a BIA. Fortunately, there was. Formation A steering committee was formed among interested business and property owners, with John as its Chair, and its first meeting held on September 28th, 2004. Particularly active members of this committee included Manuel Casaca of the Golden Comb, Joe Macado
College Promenade is an up and coming neighbourhood located on College Street between Shaw Street and Havelock Street, just west of Little Italy. College Promenade was established as a BIA in 2005. The area features over 100 businesses, including a wide assortment of restaurants, hair and beauty services, and other personal and household services.
