There will be more recreation for Saint John residents to enjoy in the New Year.
On Monday, Common Council approved five recreation initiatives that will be introduced in 2023.
The estimated budget of all five initiatives totals $384,850, which includes at least $135,000 in other funding resources which have been identified.
“Staff estimates a total City of Saint John investment of approximately $249,850 to achieve all five initiatives; this includes $186,800 in capital funds and $63,050.00 in operational funds,” reads a city staff report.
“These amounts have been captured in the capital and operational draft budget for 2023. Additional grants and sponsorship opportunities may offset the City’s investment even further,” added the report.
The five initiatives include a community block party trailer, a cricket field, an all-terrain off-road wheelchair, a disc golf course, and reinstating the passport to parks event series.
The community block party trailer can be used by community groups and city-led events.
It would operate from May to September as a free rental to neighbourhood groups and in locations approved by Community Services.
The passport to parks event series would consist of up to six events to take place at various parks during early summer weekends.
The city will be responsible for costs associated with the events and the staff resources required.
The all-terrain off-road wheelchair would be used at Rockwood Park trails and beaches.
All-terrain wheelchairs are designed for off-road capabilities to tackle uneven ground, gravel, and outdoor elements.
For the disc golf course, the city still needs to identify a parcel of city-owned land and develop the course in partnership with the local disc golf association.
The city will also have to identify a parcel of city-owned land and develop a cricket field in partnership with provincial and local cricket club associations.