An environmental group in Saint John is starting a project in July to breathe new life into an area known as Tin Can Beach, a spot in the city that has deteriorated over the years.
“This place is formally known as Rockaway Beach, it was the place to be on weekends back in the early 1990s,” explains Tim Vickers, executive director of the Atlantic Coastal Action Plan. “So there were beach houses here, board walks, and people down here wearing their bloomer bathing suits.”
ACAP saw a lot of potential in the property, so after some discussion with the city they decided to put a plan in action.
“For years, ACAP has been listening to the community express their interest in the value of the area at the end of Sydney Street -- Tin Can Beach. It holds to them the ability to come down here and sit and enjoy the scenery,” adds Vicker.
Common councilor Gerry Lowe says upgrading the land could go a long way in helping the south end of the city.
“Just like with Rainbow Park, Queens Square and the beach down there, the little things happening, there’s a lot more that can happen,” said Lowe.
There has been some debate on what to call the area. Originally it was called Rockaway Beach, but over the years the name Tin Can Beach was coined. Those working on the revitalization project say they don’t really care what it’s called; they just want it to be a spot people can come.
“I certainly don’t anticipate or even promote people coming down and swimming again,” adds Vickers. “But in terms of utilizing it as a green space, it is the last location on the Saint John Harbour you can access the water or even get close to it to see the marine traffic that takes place.”
Next month, trees will be planted along the street leading to the beach. Then in the fall, ACAP is planning a fundraiser to get the public involved.
With files from CTV’s Ashley Dunbar.
