Wolastoq Park is under threat. Part of it is at risk of being paved over to make way for a parking lot for Irving Pulp and Paper employees. The City of Saint John is considering a bylaw amendment that would allow the change, and once that decision is made, there’s no going back.

As such, the Saint John Community Coalition (SJCC) has launched a petition, calling on residents to stand up and protect the park. “This development would forever change the park and the benefits it brings to residents and tourists alike,” SJCC said in a statement. What’s more frustrating? Irving Pulp and Paper already owns 118 acres of undeveloped land nearby.

People are listening. The petition has already gained over 250 signatures; but according to Raven Blue, an SJCC representative, the biggest challenge is getting the word out. “The goal of the petition is to gage the level of public support, and I think if we could get to 1000 signatures, this could make a big difference,” they said.

JDIrving Sustainability/Website

Why Should Students Care?

This isn’t just about one park. It’s about what kind of city young people want to live in. Green spaces matter—for mental health, for quality of life, and for the future of the environment. If this project goes ahead, it sets a precedent: that parks, no matter how valued, can be taken away for industrial expansion.

“Younger generations understand the importance of green spaces in our community,” Raven said. “Our zoning bylaws are there to protect them. What is happening in Wolastoq Park has been happening for generations. Large industries continue to buy land in residential areas and modify its use, making the space less appealing for residents and future housing development.”

How Students Can Take Action

1. Sign the Petition & Spread the Word – It’s quick, easy, and makes a difference. The petition is available at sjcommunity.ca. Share it with friends, classmates, and family.

2. Show Up at City Council Meetings – Decisions are made by the people who show up. Attending a meeting (or even speaking up) can send a strong message that this issue matters.

3. Use the Park – The best way to protect the park is to show that people care about it. Study there, have a picnic, go for a walk—just be present. “It’s harder to take a park away when it is being enjoyed by more people,” Raven pointed out.

4. Speak Up Online – Social media has power. Post about the issue, tag local officials, and use community hashtags. The more noise, the harder it is to ignore.

Tourist Places/Website

The Time to Act Is Now

What happens if the bylaw change goes through? “This is really a now-or-never thing,” Raven said. “This kind of thing will continue to happen if people remain silent about it.” For years, industries have expanded into residential areas, reshaping communities and making them less livable. Saint John doesn’t have to follow that pattern. Change happens when people stand up and demand better.

“Speak your mind,” Raven added. “Your voice matters. Whether it’s taking action in-person, online, or just talking to your councillors, every bit makes a difference. Voting in an election isn’t enough anymore. Real democracy is what happens in between elections, when you can convince your elected representatives to re-think their positions.”

This is more than a single bylaw amendment. It’s about what kind of city we want to build for the future. Wolastoq Park is worth fighting for; but the question is— will you?