Should St. John's Keep Its Downtown Pedestrian Mall?
Official title: Downtown Pedestrian Mall Long-Term Plan
St. John's has closed Water Street to cars every summer since 2020, creating a pedestrian mall downtown. Now the city wants to know: should this continue long-term? They've already gathered feedback from over 4,000 people and will present recommendations to Council.
Why This Matters
Live in or visit downtown St. John's? This affects how you get around in summer. Business owners are split on whether the car-free zone helps or hurts them. Residents have raised safety concerns about panhandling and crime. If you've got opinions on parking, events, or what downtown should feel like, this is your chance.
What Could Change
Council will decide whether the pedestrian mall continues after 2025, and under what conditions. Hours could be adjusted, the season could be lengthened or shortened, and new rules around security, cleanliness, and parking could be introduced. The city may also add more events, seating, and amenities.
Key Issues
- Should the Downtown Pedestrian Mall continue beyond 2025?
- How should safety concerns like panhandling and crime be addressed?
- Should the operating hours or season length be changed?
- How can parking and accessibility challenges be improved?
How to Participate
- Read the What We Heard report to see what others have said about the pedestrian mall.
- Complete the detailed survey to share your views on the future of the Downtown Pedestrian Mall.
- Contact the City at engage@stjohns.ca or call (709) 576-8510 with questions or additional feedback.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (4)
- Should the Downtown Pedestrian Mall continue beyond 2025?
- What changes would you like to see to the DPM?
- What are your thoughts on activities and events?
- What is your experience visiting the DPM?