Help Shape the Future of St. John's University Area Neighbourhood
Official title: University Area Neighbourhood Plan
St. John's is creating a neighbourhood plan for the area around Memorial University. The plan proposes new zoning to allow taller buildings (up to 4 storeys) near MUN, more mixed-use development, and better walking and cycling paths. It's funded by federal housing money aimed at speeding up home construction.
Why This Matters
Live in the University Area or Rabbittown? This plan decides what gets built near you for the next decade. Looking for housing near MUN? New zoning could mean more apartments and townhouses. Walk or bike to campus? New shared-use paths are proposed along Newtown Road.
What Could Change
New zoning would allow 4-storey buildings along Elizabeth Avenue and Newtown Road. The Paton Street intersection becomes a priority area for shops and services. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation gets flexibility to redevelop their properties. Highway-oriented businesses on Freshwater Road could become mixed-use over time.
Key Issues
- Should building heights increase to 4 storeys near MUN and along main corridors?
- How should the Paton Street area develop as a neighbourhood centre with more shops and services?
- How can Rabbittown's heritage character be preserved while allowing growth?
- Where should new shared-use paths for walking and cycling be built?
How to Participate
- Review the University Area Neighbourhood Plan and the Neighbourhood Strategy Map to understand the proposed changes.
- Read the Background Report to learn about the neighbourhood's current conditions and the Phase 1 What We Heard Report to see community feedback so far.
- Contact the project team at engage@stjohns.ca or call (709) 576-8510 with questions or feedback.