Saint John’s Old North End is buzzing with renewal, community spirit, and a vision for a brighter future. From infrastructure upgrades to vibrant public art, housing developments, and educational progress, there is a lot happening—and it is all worth celebrating.
One of the most anticipated projects is the rebuilding of the public stairs on Main Street, set to begin next year. Alongside this, discussions are underway with several groups to restore St. Peter’s Field, a cherished green space with deep community roots. And yes—the marigolds are coming back! With forty-five marigold gardens already thriving across the neighbourhood, their return to Main Street will add even more colour and charm.
Housing development is also on the rise. The Old Forum site, the Huggard properties, the end of Shamrock Park (Newman area), and a property on Metcalf Street are all being transformed into residential spaces. The corners of Douglas and Main have been purchased, and the church there is being converted into apartments. These projects promise to bring new life and opportunity to the area.
Art continues to flourish thanks to Doreen Fitzpatrick and friends, whose sunflower murals now brighten Main Street. Murals and beautification efforts are happening city-wide, with buildings, fences, and public spaces getting fresh coats of paint and care.
Education is also on the move. The new K–5 school on Rope Walk Road is scheduled to open in fall 2027, offering modern facilities for young learners. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to redevelop the old Sears/Zellers property and improve traffic flow and transit access at Lansdowne Plaza.
Robertson Square has seen major improvements, including a restored trail, deck, and playground. While some unhoused individuals currently reside there, plans are in motion to relocate them to new mini-home sites. Derelict buildings are being removed—most recently on Adelaide Street—and the last boarded-up building on Bridge Street is now being refurbished.
Looking ahead, there’s hope to reopen Rockland Road as a pedestrian link to Fort Howe, with a commemoration of the “Friendship Treaties” signed with the Wabanaki Confederacy. The NB Museum is set to open in 2028, and several historic homes on Douglas Avenue are being restored.
Imagine trams returning to Robertson Square and riverboat tours from Saint John Marina exploring Pokiok, Milford, Dominion Park, and Millidgeville. With land in Pokiok overlooking the Saint John/Wolastoq River open for development, the future is full of promise.
Let us keep pushing forward—cleaner, safer, and prouder than ever. Saint John is rising, and the Old North End is leading the way.
