We now know where the new multipurpose recreation facility being proposed for Saint John will go.
During Monday’s council meeting, city staff announced it would be built next to the Irving Oil Fieldhouse on the east side.
Public Works Commissioner Michael Hugenholtz said the project will include, among other things, two new ice pads.
“Our existing municipal arenas right now are all single ice pads that are well over 50 years old,” said Hugenholtz.
“They are at the end of their service life and we’ve been planning and working towards replacement.”
As part of the project, the city also plans to relocate the East Library Branch into the space.
It will also include additional multi-purpose space for recreational, arts and cultural programming, as well as space for a community developer and a potential wellness clinic.
“We have done some conceptual design and costing, and in support of this project as well, the Fundy Regional Service Commission has completed an arena needs assessment to confirm facility demand,” said Hugenholtz.
The most recent estimate for the project in 2023 suggested a price tag of around $48 million for the full build-out.
Council previously approved a funding plan to set aside up to $3 million into reserves each year for the next five years, with an additional $5 million of borrowing.
The Greater Saint John Field House Inc., which owns the existing facility, and the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick, which operates it, will undertake a joint fundraising effort with a target of $5 million.
City staff will also reach out to the provincial and federal governments to secure funding for the project.
Hugenholtz said the proposed location is ideal as it has nearby amenities, is easily accessible by car or transit, has some of the necessary infrastructure already in place, and provides services an in underserved area.
The next step, he said, is to complete detailed design work and explore funding opportunities for the project.
Council voted Monday to approve withdrawing up to $3 million from reserves to support further development of the project.
It also agreed to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Greater Saint John Field House Inc. and the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick.
You can find more details on the Shape Your City Saint John website.
