🏡 SJ Housing Plans Revealed

Good morning, Saint John! Proof spring’s gone sideways…last year at this time, Facebook shows me in a hammock, sunscreen on full blast. Soak up today’s sun while you can - it’s a soggy weekend ahead! 🌧️

Here’s what you need to know this morning:

• Mini-home villages in SJ approved 🛖

• New spots on Hospital Hill 🆕

• Your thoughts on pool renos 🏊‍♂️

Enjoy the day!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

🏡 Green light for mini-home villages

Saint John just took a big swing at homelessness, designating two city-owned lots, Egbert Street and Thorne Avenue, as official “Green Zones.” What’s that mean? These will be small, secure transitional housing communities run by 12 Neighbours Inc. (the same folks behind Fredericton’s successful micro-home model). Each site will house 27 people in heated mini-units with shared kitchens, bathrooms, 24/7 staff, and on-site supports. First site’s expected to open mid-summer 2025. 

🏗️ Spotted - New Digs on Hospital Hill

You may have zipped past it a hundred times without a second glance, but that quietly revamped building tucked behind St. Joe’s? It’s now officially open for move-in. The fresh-faced apartment complex at 1 Bayard Drive is part of a bigger plan to breathe new life into Hospital Hill, and it’s already more than half full. Built with seniors in mind (but open to all), the place promises modern, accessible living with skyline views and a hospital just a stone’s throw away in case your casserole goes sideways. “This is about more than just housing,” says developer Michael Wowchuk. “It’s about creating a community where people can thrive.” Future phases will add more apartments, green space, and a new pedestrian path…though construction timelines may flex thanks to tariffs. With even bigger developments looming nearby, this stretch of Waterloo Village is starting to feel like a neighbourhood in motion.

🌲 Spruce Lake hearing to continue next month

The second round of public hearings on the proposed Spruce Lake Industrial Park expansion ran late into Tuesday night, with dozens of residents sharing ongoing concerns, mainly around water, wetlands, and what kinds of industries might move in. City staff presented new updates, including larger buffer zones and restrictions to “non-emitting” uses only. With more voices still to be heard, council will resume the hearing June 3. Meanwhile, NB’s environment minister has stepped back from the issue, citing a potential conflict.

💬 The Results: Pool Renos at Aquatic Centre

Our readers have spoken: while everyone loves a glow-up, what they really want is more time to splash around. Overall, the renovation plans have been well received, seen as a much-needed boost for both the pool and the city.

In yesterday’s poll on the $25.1M Canada Games Aquatic Centre upgrade, 34% picked “more public swim time” as their top priority, followed by accessibility at 20%, new seating and a refreshed competition pool tied at 17%, and carbon-neutral features at 12%.

Comments highlighted frustrations with parking and navigating uptown, while several pointed out that accessibility remains a major challenge across the city’s core and beyond. Saint John’s aging infrastructure and shifting street layouts pose real hurdles for seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone needing easy, safe access. The Aquatic Centre upgrades are a good first step toward making the city more welcoming for all.

Though plans are still unfolding, this early feedback shows it’s about more than medals or bleachers…it’s about making the pool a place everyone can enjoy.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

Weekend Preview
Saint John’s weekend is locked and loaded! From kids’ trucks and whodunits Thursday, to live art and loud tunes Friday. Saturday kicks off with a 5K, golf, and a dog walk. Sunday wraps with self-care, culture, and a purse party.

THURSDAY

Roar & Explore for Kids | May 22
Sirens, steel, and smiling kids - Touch-a-Truck is rolling into the Saint John Airport Access Road from 5-7pm. Families can get up close with emergency vehicles, construction gear, and more, while meeting the folks who operate them. Entry is by cash donation. There’ll be vendors, a canteen, balloon animals, and face painting to keep the fun rolling. Runs for two hours, so bring your camera and curiosity!

Dial M for Murder | May 22–24
Saint John Theatre Company brings a fresh twist to the classic Hitchcock thriller with Dial M for Murder. This suspense-packed story of secrets and scheming runs Thursday through Saturday at Imperial Theatre, with evening shows at 7:30pm and a Saturday matinee at 2pm. A must-see for mystery lovers who like their drama with a side of vintage intrigue.

Diamond Dinner Gala | May 22
Glitz, games, and giving back…BGC Greater Saint John’s biggest night is here. The annual Diamond Dinner Gala sparkles at the Delta with fine dining, prizes, and an elimination draw for a diamond ring (thanks to W. Smith & Co.). Comedian Evan Carter hosts the festivities. Tickets are $75, or $750 for a table. Doors open at 5pm.

FRIDAY

Anti-Racism Forum | May 23
The Asian Heritage Society of New Brunswick Saint John Chapter and PRUDE Inc. team up for an important evening of presentations, panel discussions, and audience Q&A from 5 to 7pm at PRUDE’s Market Square office. It’s a chance to learn, engage, and stand against racism together. Light refreshments will be served. This free event requires registration here. 

Kestrels, Sheik & Something French | May 23
Indie noise-pop meets alt-rock at Haven Music Hall as Kestrels rolls through Saint John for the first time in years, joined by Sheik and Something French, just ahead of their Flourish Fest sets. Expect new music, big sound, and a packed night. Doors at 8pm, music at 9pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door.

Art Battle New Brunswick | May 23
Get ready for an electrifying Friday night at Kent Theatre as live competitive painters battle it out! Watch talented artists create stunning pieces in three 20-minute rounds, then vote for your favourite. All ages are welcome, and you can even bid in a silent auction to take home the art. Doors open at 7:30pm, painting starts at 8:15pm. Tickets $25 advance, $30 at the door.

SATURDAY

Fort La Tour parkrun | May 24
Start your Saturday with a friendly, free 5K run at 9am! Join the community at Fort La Tour Historic Site on Harbour Passage for a fun 4-loop course, cheered on by welcoming volunteers. It’s open to all levels—just register ahead for your barcode at parkrun.ca/fortlatour. Lace up and enjoy a fresh morning with fellow runners!

DMNB Charity Golf Classic | May 24
Golfers, grab your clubs, Dalhousie Med students are back with the 12th Annual DMNB Charity Golf Classic at Rockwood. The 4-player scramble kicks off at 10am (registration opens at 9am), and wraps with a reception at Britt’s Rockwood. All proceeds support mental health and wellness across NB. Deadline to register is May 17. There’s still time to sign up! 

Guide Dog Walk | May 24
The Quispamsis Lions Club is celebrating 40 years of this beloved dog walk fundraiser—and everyone’s invited, with or without a pup. There’ll be a BBQ, cake, doggie treats from Pet Valu, and a short walk to mark the milestone. Registration starts at 10am, the walk kicks off at 11am at 175 Old Hampton Rd in Quispamsis. Bring your sneakers and your four-legged friends!

SUNDAY

Ear Candling Sessions | May 25
The Soulful Boutique is offering a unique self-care experience from 12 to 6pm with ear candling sessions guided by Dharma of It’s In Your Nature Creations. This ancient holistic practice is said to help with sinus pressure, headaches, tension, and more. It’s $30 per session and spots are limited to seven, so booking ahead is a must. Take a breath, relax, and treat yourself.

Asian Heritage Month Gala | May 25
Wrap up Asian Heritage Month with a vibrant celebration at Saint John High School Auditorium from 2 to 5pm. Enjoy music, dance, fashion, food, and traditions from local Asian communities showcasing their rich culture. It’s a free, all-ages event that promises fun and inspiration.

Purse Party | May 25
Purses, pastries, and prizes…what more could you want on a Sunday afternoon? Harmony United Church is hosting a Purse Party from 3-5pm at 8 Upland Road to support their outreach work. Tickets are $20 and everyone leaves with a purse. Expect tea, treats, door prizes, a silent auction, and lots of laughs. To snag a ticket, contact [email protected] or call 506-696-3773.

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

Thanks for reading SJ Today - If you found it useful, share it with someone who knows how to make the most of a wet weekend. ☔

-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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