We’re continuing work on creating a vibrant, engaging and thriving downtown, building on past successes, and creating new spaces for pedestrians in our city core.

Building on the framework provided by the St. Catharines Downtown Creative Cluster Master Plan, we’ve seen a boom in the City centre. Goals - such as the construction of the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre, the Meridian Centre, and the relocation of Brock University’s School of Fine and Performing Arts - have become a reality and all have, in turn, helped create a thriving retail and cultural scene, drawing more people and businesses to the core. Our downtown is home to a diverse and growing residential range of housing for a growing population.

The development of outdoor public gathering spaces for those who live, work and visit the downtown core is a strategic priority to promote livability and create places for gathering and celebration. We can now look to the future of James Street and how it might transform to better suit the needs of our evolving downtown.

James Street has been identified for reconstruction, and along with surrounding public spaces such as the Central Library plaza, the City Hall lawns and parking lots, Market Square and the old courthouse, there’s a unique opportunity to create a cohesive outdoor space for everyone.

We want to bring the vision of a central community gathering space into reality. You can help by sharing your ideas and vision for what this place could become.

The Project

The City of St. Catharines has initiated a study to identify a preferred vision for the redevelopment of James Street into a Civic Square area from King Street to Church Street. Through the study, a recommended concept will be developed that will support the City’s goal of providing a community gathering place within the downtown core. The study area is highlighted in red below.

Review the Design Options:

Option 1

Option 1 is anchored by a central water feature that serves as an interactive focal point for the community. This water feature would be visible up and down James Street and would create a lively atmosphere at the heart of the space. The community stage and screen are positioned within the library courtyard, which preserves three mature trees and offers a more intimate setting for events, while a flexible use area seamlessly connects to the central water feature, providing opportunities for gatherings and activities. An urban play area adjacent to City Hall adds a playful element for families and children. James Street will be transformed into a pedestrian priority corridor. It will still allow access for pick-ups and drop-offs. Green infrastructure in every option treats rainwater as a resource and supports new planting areas.

Option 2

Option 2 is anchored by the community stage and screen located in the middle of the space, facing toward the library. In front of the stage, a playful water feature offers an engaging and interactive experience, which can be turned off during events to accommodate larger crowds better. An urban playground is tucked back towards the library, creating a quieter play space. Public art enlivens the arrival area to City Hall, complemented by fitness equipment to encourage active use of the space. All three options include an expanded and protected outdoor market area, enhancing the versatility and vibrancy of James Square.

Option 3

Option 3 introduces a skating rink and splash play feature designed to draw people to James Square in summer and winter. This large feature occupies the library courtyard and requires a building for supporting equipment. The community stage and screen are next to the old courthouse alongside the outdoor market space. The Courthouse will serve as a unique backdrop for the stage. An urban play area and exercise equipment are located near City Hall. A ceremonial flagpole area is also included, common to each option, adding a formal and symbolic element to the space. Every option also features numerous trees to provide shade and make the space feel green and welcoming.

Please see the pdf under the 'View Options' widget to the right to download this in higher resolution

Project Background

The Civic Square is intended to be an inclusive and dynamic outdoor pedestrian space that will serve the growing downtown community and could host a range of special events, festivals, markets, and year-round activities. To date, staff have developed several high-level options for the corridor, requiring input from the public prior to moving forward with a preferred concept.

Engagement Opportunities

Survey

An online survey is open for feedback until Jan. 2, 2025. You will find it linked in the tools at the bottom of this page.

Past Engagement Opportunities

An initial Public Information Centre was held on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, and the first survey about the study closed on Jan. 2, 2024.

Our second Community Visioning Open House to learn more about the project and share ideas on the preliminary options developed by the Project Team took place on Dec. 2, 2024.

Watch

Take a look at the presentation from the public meeting held on Dec. 2, 2024:

View the presentation in the documents to the right