Attractions

Council’s vision is to transform this 17-hectare site into an area where residents and visitors to the area can experience the natural phenomenon of the wetlands, as well as an education centre that will promote responsible environmental conservation and enhancement.  The project will be phased in over three years, with the first two years focusing on the trail development and enhancement, while the final year will see the construction of the Conservation Centre.  The estimated value of the total project is 2.2 million dollars.

“This is a very easy project to support as it will benefit not only our citizens and students, but will also benefit our business community as we bring more visitors to the area!” Mayor Bob Powell   

The Town, in partnership with Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Oromocto River Watershed Association, plan to create a remarkable urban wetland conservation centre.  The proposed facility will have a heritage component that will showcase its diverse culture, will house a visitor information center, provide exhibition and educational space, and offer a viewing terrace of the wetlands.  Ducks Unlimited has already been working closely with the Town to improve the natural habitat of the wetland to enhance the visitor experience in the area. 

The public nature trails will create a vital link in the Town’s Active Transportation Plan for walkers and cyclists.  It will include boardwalks, a covered bridge, gazebos, wooden benches and covered picnic shelters. The Center will also serve to connect people to the vast regional adventure trail network that has been created by the Oromocto River Watershed Association.

Mayor Powell says he is proud of the work that all the partners have done to make the launch possible.  He noted the Gateway area is one of the places where there is a great deal of development going on commercially, and the creation of this urban wetland will be an added benefit to the area.