The challenges facing the capital city’s downtown, and some possible solutions, have been laid out in a ‘What We Heard’ document released by the city.
The document, which compiles and summarizes what was heard through various mediums of engagement, lists several issues and challenges facing the downtown.
Among them are a lack of a police or security presence, increased crime, transportation and accessibility challenges, large companies relocating out of the downtown, vacant and neglected properties hurting the area’s character, a lack of child care, and a lack of support from the city.
The Downtown St. John’s Neighbourhood Plan will focus on the area highlighted.
In terms of what could be needed to correct some of the issues, participants suggest a library or community centre, more variety in business offerings, better signage, redesigned development guidelines, more housing options, improved public transit, and improved sidewalk snow clearing.
The full document can be found online.
