City of Saint John and Dominion Park Community Association unveil “revitalized” plan for Dominion Park

Common Council approves report recommendations as project reaches Phase 1 milestone

Those who enjoy the “best sunsets in the city” and Saint John’s only public beach on the St. John River will see the natural assets of Dominion Park enhanced with new and accessible public amenities. At its meeting on Monday, November 1, Common Council approved the plan for Phase 1 of the Dominion Park Master Plan revitalization project contingent on the approval of $865,000 from the City’s 2022 capital budget program. 

Phase 1 of the Master Plan includes a new permanent building and a “Sunset Plaza”, and was reduced in cost from $1.8 million to $1.04 million as part of a design review. Changes included the type of materials used and a redesign of the building and Plaza. Updated renderings and cost estimates address infrastructure requirements, flood protections and public accessibility, while fulfilling the original objectives established through the City’s master planning exercise.

“Council is committed to making quality-of-life investments for our residents and strengthening community partnerships. We recognize that the livability of a city, including Saint John, is a significant part of the overall economic development strategy. The Dominion Park Master Plan is a great example of how a strong partnership between a dedicated community group and professional city teams can produce positive results for everyone,” says Mayor Donna Reardon. “By working together, we will achieve growth by creating a community where people love to live and feel they belong.”

In 2018, the Dominion Park amenities building was damaged by flood water and later deemed unsalvageable. During the summers of 2019, 2020 and 2021, portable washrooms and change rooms were brought in. The revitalization project was launched in 2019, and included engagement with a local architecture firm Glenn Group.

“This is community designed and developed, and we know that all Saint Johners will come and experience what our neighbours have known about for years,” says Derek Chaisson, President of the Dominion Park Community Association. “There is still much work to be done, but in the end, we will be rewarded with a place where people can enjoy one of the City’s best assets.”

Tendering and procurement of Phase 1 of the project will begin shortly. It is expected that construction will begin in early spring, with full completion of Phase 1 in 2022. Plans are already underway for the development of Phases 2 and 3.

The Dominion Park Community Association continues to fundraise for the project and recently received its first corporate donation from J.D. Irving, Limited. 

The Association, with the help of the City of Saint John, plans to build further awareness of the plans and what the community can expect in 2022. Once a construction schedule is established, the public will be notified of dates and times, along with any temporary changes to public access while the work is underway. The City will ensure that any required disruptions will be kept to a minimum for park users, neighbouring residents and TimberTop Adventures customers. 

Read the Council Report  

About Dominion Park

Dominion Park, tucked into a cove on Greenhead Island on the City’s west side, offers commanding views up the St. John River, as well as a sandy beach with lifeguard service in the summer. One of the City’s designated district parks, Dominion Park has been a favourite of locals for years and is now well-enjoyed by many visitors. More about the Dominion Park Community Association can be found here: https://www.facebook.com/DominionParkCommunityAssociation