The Saint John City Market will soon be marking its 150th birthday! Which means it is time to celebrate with some exciting renovations, relocations, and new additions.
The iconic building was designated a National Historic Site of Canada on June 16, 1986, and has been operated by the City since 1876. This year council has committed $500,000 to begin implementing the City Market Strategic Plan, and some of the construction has already begun.
A series of improvements are underway to enhance flow, and function. The construction schedule includes vendor moves and rebuilding, the creation of a new central seating & performance area called “The Deck”, improved aisle widths, installation of the Hooper Timepiece public art, and a transition to a two-aisle layout. Major work for this year will be completed prior to peak tourist season.
Later in the year, the focus will shift to expanding and redesigning the Green Grocer stall (using its current footprint plus two adjacent vacant spaces) and advancing plans for a new General Store featuring locally made products and market-branded merchandise.
Plan development began in January 2022 and included input from over 350 voices, vendors, stakeholders, and community members. The 2023–2033 Strategic Plan lays out clear, actionable steps to strengthen the Market as a vibrant, accessible, and welcoming place for everyone.
Key Actions from the Strategic Plan:
– Remodel vendor space to make room for the new central seating area
– Develop a new marketing and communications plan alongside the refreshed brand
– Construct the new central seating area “The Deck”
– Add 1–3 new kiosks to improve flow and open up sight lines
– Purchase new seating for the Market solarium and “The Deck”
– Advance plans for the new General Store
– Explore enhancements for South Market Street (outdoor seating, improved lighting, PA system, green spaces, and local art)
– Restore and highlight the many historical items found throughout the Market
Current Schedule – First Quarter 2026:
– Relocation of Kim’s Korean 
– Relocation of Chicken by Felix
– Renovations of Market Street Kitchen (former Billy’s space) — ongoing
– Renovations of Howard’s — ongoing
– Renovations of adjacent space for Jeremiah’s expansion — ongoing (aisle closed at the site)
– The Bagel Artist space — nearing completion
Second Quarter 2026:
– Construction of the new seating area “The Deck” will begin
– Completion of the new Jeremiah’s space
– Installation of the Hooper Timepiece public art (formerly outside Market Square)
– Addition of 1–3 new kiosks
– Design work for other stalls will be finalized
Let’s keep investing in our history while enhancing our community gathering spaces!
