KITCHENER, Ontario — Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic will deliver his highly anticipated 2025 State of the City Address today, outlining key achievements, ongoing priorities, and a vision for the city’s next phase of growth and innovation.
The annual address, scheduled for 5:00 p.m. at the Centre In The Square, is expected to highlight the city’s progress on strategic initiatives that have strengthened Kitchener’s economy, fostered innovation, and enhanced community inclusion. The event will also feature what city officials describe as an “exciting announcement,” reflecting the administration’s continued focus on forward-looking development and civic engagement.
The State of the City address provides a platform for the mayor to report directly to residents, businesses, and community stakeholders on municipal performance and upcoming priorities. For Kitchener — one of Ontario’s fastest-growing urban centres — the address also serves as a barometer for the region’s broader economic and social direction.
Focusing on innovation, inclusion, and growth
While details of the speech remain under wraps, city officials say Mayor Vrbanovic will use the opportunity to underscore Kitchener’s ongoing transformation into a more innovative, connected, and inclusive city.
Over the past several years, Kitchener has positioned itself as a leader in the innovation economy, leveraging partnerships between local government, post-secondary institutions, and the private sector. The city’s continued investment in technology, housing, and infrastructure has made it a growing hub for entrepreneurship and sustainable development in southwestern Ontario.
Mayor Vrbanovic is expected to discuss how these initiatives align with the city’s broader strategic priorities — including fostering economic resilience, supporting housing affordability, enhancing public spaces, and advancing sustainability.
“Mayor Berry Vrbanovic will deliver his 2025 State of the City address, highlighting progress on strategic priorities that are driving a stronger, more innovative, and inclusive Kitchener. He will also be making an exciting announcement.”
The address comes at a pivotal moment for the municipality, which has been balancing rapid population growth with the need for equitable and sustainable urban development.
A key event for the local business and civic community
The event, held at Centre In The Square — one of the city’s premier cultural venues — will draw an audience that includes local business leaders, community organizations, and residents, as well as members of Kitchener City Council.
The mayor’s State of the City remarks traditionally provide a snapshot of the city’s economic and social progress while setting the tone for the year ahead. With significant development projects underway and a renewed focus on sustainability and innovation, this year’s address is expected to outline how the city plans to build on its recent successes.
Kitchener’s ongoing efforts to revitalize its downtown core, invest in public transit, and expand access to community amenities have been central to its growth strategy. The city has also made strides in promoting equity and inclusion, with programs designed to ensure that all residents benefit from its economic progress.
Invitation to media and public engagement
Members of the media are invited to attend the event at no cost, with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. The city anticipates broad coverage, as the mayor’s address frequently includes policy announcements or updates on major infrastructure or economic development initiatives.
The municipality has also encouraged residents to engage with the event through local media and digital platforms. In recent years, the State of the City has evolved beyond a formal civic address to become a community-wide discussion about Kitchener’s direction and values.
For the city’s growing population, the address serves as a reminder of how local government plays a direct role in shaping economic opportunity, quality of life, and environmental stewardship.
Looking ahead
With Kitchener continuing to attract new residents and businesses, today’s address offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the city’s trajectory. Mayor Vrbanovic’s remarks are expected to emphasize collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and innovation as key drivers of the city’s success in the years ahead.
The 2025 State of the City Address promises to reaffirm Kitchener’s commitment to building a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive community — one that balances economic ambition with social progress.
