Teeming with a contagious energy, Fredericton’s Officers’ Square is on the cusp of becoming a bustling hub for events and entertainment as the summer months approach. Greg McCann, the project engineer leading the revitalization efforts, anticipates the square’s first event on July 1, marking a pivotal moment in the project’s timeline.
The journey towards this vibrant transformation began in 2018, stirring a wave of feedback from the city’s residents – a mix of eager support and genuine concerns. The community voiced anxiety over the removal of trees and a historic fence during the construction process, prompting the city to reassess its plans. This led to the preservation of mature trees and collaboration with the Wolastoqey Nation to protect a paleo-shoreline uncovered by archaeologists at the site.
Surpassing all expectations, the new skating track, initially scheduled for a grand opening in January 2024, made its debut ahead of schedule and has quickly become a local favourite. Mike Walker, the Engineering and Operations assistant director, expressed astonishment at the overwhelming response, noting the rink’s popularity among skaters since its opening day.
Local perspectives on the revitalization project are as diverse as the city itself. Curt Nicholson, a long-time Fredericton resident, acknowledged initial concerns about tree loss but emphasized the positive changes taking shape in the square. Meanwhile, Kaden Major, who visited the rink for a leisurely skate, expressed excitement for future concerts and events in the area, mirroring the growing anticipation within the community.
Another local, Peter Smith, welcomed the development as a boon for the city, providing families like his with more recreational activities in the heart of downtown. Amidst the excitement of revitalization, McCann shared plans for additional enhancements to the square, including a new soundstage, paver stones, reinstalled cannons, and outdoor lighting for the museum.
As the historic Officers’ Square in Fredericton undergoes its transformation, the city is preparing to embrace its new identity as a vibrant centre of activity and community gatherings. McCann encapsulated the city’s hopes for the revitalized square, highlighting the crucial role of community engagement in its success.
With the final touches being meticulously put in place, the excitement surrounding Officers’ Square continues to swell, paving the way for a new era of dynamism and liveliness in the heart of Fredericton.
