The reopening of Fredericton’s Officers’ Square was a highly anticipated event that drew hundreds of people to witness the official re-launch of the space. Despite public outcry and challenges such as the discovery of Acadian and Indigenous artifacts, as well as the change in ownership from the province to the city, the vision for revitalizing the historic site finally came to fruition. Mayor Kate Rogers expressed her hope that the community would see it as a welcoming public gathering space, emphasizing the importance of taking the necessary time to listen to what the public wanted for the area. The project ended up costing $11.5 million, with delays extending the timeline to six years, but Rogers believed it was worth it to ensure the project was done right.
A significant focus of the reopening event was on Wolastoqey communities, with Wolastoqey Grand Chief Ron Tremblay opening the ceremony. The partnership between the city and the Wolastoqey was seen as a positive step towards renewing their relationship, with Tremblay emphasizing the importance of Indigenous voices being at the forefront of festivals and ceremonies. Mayor Rogers also highlighted the significance of being treaty people, emphasizing the importance of friendship, peace, and mutual respect between equal nations. The collaboration with the Wolastoqey was viewed as an opportunity to right historical wrongs and build a more collaborative relationship moving forward.
Major changes to the square included the addition of a new skating rink, walkway, stage, and seating area. Residents were thrilled with the upgrades, with one resident expressing their joy over the long-overdue improvements. Another resident mentioned teaching their sons how to skate on the new rink, highlighting the importance of creating community spaces for families to enjoy together. Musician Jeremy Dutcher kicked off GarrisonFest, a series of free concerts that took place throughout the long weekend, providing entertainment and a place for people to gather and enjoy the new space. Overall, community members were excited to see downtown Fredericton evolving into a more vibrant and community-focused area.
The event marked a significant milestone in the revitalization of Officers’ Square, celebrating the completion of a project that faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. Mayor Kate Rogers expressed her gratitude to the community for their continued support and input throughout the process, emphasizing the importance of taking the time to do things right. The collaboration with Wolastoqey communities was a key aspect of the project, signaling a renewed partnership and a commitment to building a more inclusive and welcoming space for all. The reopening of Officers’ Square was seen as a positive step towards creating a vibrant and community-focused gathering space for residents and visitors alike.
Overall, the reopening of Officers’ Square was met with enthusiasm from the community, as residents gathered to celebrate the completion of a project that had been years in the making. The inclusion of Wolastoqey voices and the focus on collaboration and partnership highlighted the importance of acknowledging and honoring Indigenous communities in the revitalization process. The upgrades to the square, including the new skating rink and stage, were well-received by residents, who were excited to see downtown Fredericton evolving into a more vibrant and community-oriented space. The event marked a significant milestone in the city’s history, setting the stage for future collaborations and developments that prioritize inclusivity, community engagement, and respect for all.
