St. John's releases feedback on Cowan Heights and University area neighbourhood plans

The City of St. John’s has released feedback collected for the Cowan Heights and University Area Neighbourhood Plans. The process focused on gathering feedback on emerging strategies related to land use, intensification, mobility, parks, and the public realm.

Key Highlights from Cowan Heights Engagement includes upgrading parks and trails and improvements in active transportation, pedestrian infrastructure, and transit. Safety emerged as a significant theme. While there was general support for housing options and mixed-use development, respondents emphasized the importance of maintaining livability for both existing and new residents.

Key Highlights from University Area Engagement included a greater emphasis on residential neighbourhoods in addition to institutional areas. Most strategies received support, though proposed intensification along Elizabeth Avenue and Freshwater Road prompted mixed feedback. Participants were supportive of more housing types and mixed-use development, with calls to ensure future growth is compatible with the neighbourhood context.

A proposed shared-use path on Newtown Road was well received and respondents were enthusiastic about more events and activities in parks. Ideas for community building were positively received, with feedback focused on the importance of taking next steps to bring them to life.