Orlando, FL: On Thursday, January 17, 2008, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will open the City’s new Downtown Orlando Information Center and officially launch the Ambassador Program at a ceremony at the Information Center. As Downtown Orlando’s renaissance advances, the City has developed a public-private partnership that will further enhance the area’s vibrant quality of life and enhance safety in its downtown core. The program reflects the Downtown business community’s desire to elevate the shopping-entertainment-and-dining experience for people who come to Downtown Orlando.

Highlights of the two-year pilot program include:

• The ambassador program will be another layer of safety for downtown residents and visitors. Ambassadors will be equipped with two-way radios, area maps, and general information that will allow them to direct lost tourists, radio police as necessary, provide public infrastructure damage reports, or offer outreach assistance to homeless individuals.
   

• The Downtown Orlando Information Center will offer visitors information about places to eat, shop, visit and stay. The goal is to create a friendly, helpful, and safe Downtown environment. The center will be equipped with a three dimensional scale model of Downtown Orlando, two interactive touch-screen kiosks, two electronic messaging systems and other visual displays, as well as a variety of collateral materials focused on Downtown Orlando. It will be funded through a partnership between the DDB and the private sector, which is a key supporter of the program.
   

• Dozens of other U.S. cities, including Jacksonville, Atlanta, Denver and San Diego already have successful downtown ambassador programs established.

This new initiative will:

• Enhance Public Safety

• Enhance public awareness of downtown amenities and businesses

• Promote downtown establishments

• Promote return visits

• Improve cleanliness and quality of life

• Increase status reports about public spaces via ambassador monitoring

• Promote Social Service assistance to disadvantaged individuals

Orlando’s downtown ambassadors will initially patrol the area roughly bounded by Amelia Street to the North, Summerlin Avenue to the East, Anderson Street to the South, and Parramore Avenue to the West. During special Downtown events at the Centroplex, Lake Eola, or other community destinations, ambassadors will also cover these areas on an as-needed basis.

WHEN:	Thursday, January 17, 2008 at 10 a.m.
WHERE:	The Downtown Orlando Information Center is located at: 201 S. Orange Ave., Ste. 102