[OliverD]

As I speculated a few weeks ago, a piece of 709 Bishop Drive (future Hampton Inn property) has been carved off to leave room for the proposed Smythe Street overpass/roundabout. You can see the updated property lines on geonb.snb.ca.

That really should be a top priority for the city, as it could alleviate a lot of the headaches experienced at the Smythe and Regent intersection.

[Taeolas]

Agreed. Bishop/Smythe is probably one of the most important road projects we have here in Freddy, followed closely by 2NC/RingRoad.

That said, why don't they officially make the middle Northbound lane of Regent into a "Turn or Straight" lane to get onto Prospect? Letting 2 lanes turn onto Prospect during each light cycle would probably help the congestion that builds up there. (Granted it would mean we'd have to 'learn' to turn into the appropriate lane).

Finally, something I've been curious about since I live in the area now; why did they take out (or never finish) the on/off ramps between Brookside and Ring Road? It's obvious they were (almost) there, and there are times that traffic would flow easier if there were on/off ramps. (Especially when people are going up the shoulder of Brookside to turn Right at the lights)

[JHikka]

Agreed. Bishop/Smythe is probably one of the most important road projects we have here in Freddy, followed closely by 2NC/RingRoad.

Forgive my ignorance but what is the 2NC/RingRoad project? Are they adding to the existing roads?

Really excited for a Smythe overpass onto Bishop!

[Taeolas]

The 2NC/Ring Road project is similar to the Smythe street project. Last summer they did the surveying for it, but it is otherwise still just existing on paper.

It would build a bridge across the Ring Road, to give access between 2NC and the Southbound lanes of the Ring road; so you wouldn't have to go down to Maple street to go from Brookside to Walmart or from Walmart to Downtown.

I believe that both projects are known to be very important by City Council; but they're probably tied up in red tape due to involving provincial highways. They are on the multiyear plan IIRC, at the sooner rather than later end of the plan. (The later end of the plan calls for a 3rd bridge across the river, somewhere upriver)

[OliverD]

Was cycling on the bike path that runs along the river parallel to the Woodstock road. Noticed down the far end, where there are three houses set well back from the road, that they have started some excavation in the empty lot just beside the white house. It looks as though they are going to put the stream that runs through there into a culvert. Does anyone know what the plans are for that empty piece of land?

Wasn't sure where you were talking about until I drove by it today. There's a sign up now. They are building a crescent with 20 building lots, 10 of which are waterfront.

This property has a bit of an interesting history. A while back the developer wanted to put a cul de sac in, with some lots fronting Woodstock and others on the court. Neighbors complained and it was revised to a bunch of lots that all were on Woodstock Road, but some had long driveways and were behind the others so they had water frontage. There were signs up last year and a bunch had supposedly sold. Then the signs disappeared. Now the plan has changed again.

[OliverD]

Finally, something I've been curious about since I live in the area now; why did they take out (or never finish) the on/off ramps between Brookside and Ring Road? It's obvious they were (almost) there, and there are times that traffic would flow easier if there were on/off ramps. (Especially when people are going up the shoulder of Brookside to turn Right at the lights)

I've often wondered that myself. Would make the intersection safer and more efficient IMO.

[Steeple Shanks]

Wasn't sure where you were talking about until I drove by it today. There's a sign up now. They are building a crescent with 20 building lots, 10 of which are waterfront.

This property has a bit of an interesting history. A while back the developer wanted to put a cul de sac in, with some lots fronting Woodstock and others on the court. Neighbors complained and it was revised to a bunch of lots that all were on Woodstock Road, but some had long driveways and were behind the others so they had water frontage. There were signs up last year and a bunch had supposedly sold. Then the signs disappeared. Now the plan has changed again.

Thanks OliverD! I passed by on the bike path today, it is going to be a dramatic change to the area for sure.

[OliverD]

I was looking at the web site for The Plaza at Forest Hills this weekend: http://plazaforesthill.com/

I'd say that the first apartment building in Fredericton that can be accurately described as luxurious. Looks like it has a lot of amenities, and some of the penthouse units have massive terraces. I wonder what rents are like.

[Freddypop]

I was looking at the web site for The Plaza at Forest Hills this weekend: http://plazaforesthill.com/

I'd say that the first apartment building in Fredericton that can be accurately described as luxurious. Looks like it has a lot of amenities, and some of the penthouse units have massive terraces. I wonder what rents are like.

Didn't realize it was high-end like this ie pentouse, concierge, theatre, etc. Bonus is that it now stands prominately on the Freddy skyline!

[cj6286]

I see they've almost finished paving the Northside Trail up to Brookside. Does anyone know when they will be paving the Valley Trail from Smythe to Hanwell? I noticed it was highlighted in the road construction map on the city website.

[Steeple Shanks]

I see they've almost finished paving the Northside Trail up to Brookside. Does anyone know when they will be paving the Valley Trail from Smythe to Hanwell? I noticed it was highlighted in the road construction map on the city website.

I cycle that path everyday and they have marked, with spray paint, the area between the Superstore and the exhibition grounds and have begun some grading.

[KnoxfordGuy]

The Freddy website says that the city has seen 55 million in developments as of June. Pretty good I guess. I hope we pass the 100 million dollar mark again this year! :) *crosses fingers*

[Freddypop]

Here is the detailed PAC application for the proposed mixed development to be known as Stonecrest at Kimble Crossing off Kimble Drive. Will provide some much needed infill when completed.

http://yourfred.com/2012/07/18/pac-application-kimble-crossing/

Here is the full detailed application in PDF format:

http://yourfred.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/kimble_crossing_2012_07_16.pdf

[OliverD]

Interesting proposal. I would expect the single family lots to sell quickly since that is a prime location with easy access to both uptown and downtown. However, given how long it is taking to complete Colpitts' development of townhouses/garden homes directly across Kimble Drive from this development, it will take quite a few years to be fully built out.

Also, I'm not sure if I like this trend of EVERY new development being mixed with everything from single family homes to large condo buildings.

[OliverD]

The Freddy website says that the city has seen 55 million in developments as of June. Pretty good I guess. I hope we pass the 100 million dollar mark again this year! :) *crosses fingers*

Are there any large projects that are due to start later this year? Perhaps the 100 Clark Street apartment building and the new hotel on Bishop?

[cl812]

Noticed today that some more site prep work has begun across from the St. Hubert building in the Corbett Centre. Could this maybe be the long rumored tim hortons to be set up there, I wonder?

In my opinion a Starbucks or Second Cup would be better there.

Also noticed a sign up for CAA in the dollarama strip there as well.

Not that either of these are that interesting, but thought it was worth mentioning.

[Taeolas]

More roundabouts planned. (http://www.fredericton.ca/en/transportation/NR2012July17Roundabouts.asp#1757). The next one, after Cliff/2NC, will be Bishops@Lian, construction to start soon after Cliff/2NC is done later this year.

I know there are some complaints about the roundabouts, but I like them. I don't use them that often but traffic does seem smoother with them in place.

Though I do wonder if we should try some of the busier intersections, like Woodstock and Smythe, or Hanwell and Bishop or Bishop and Regent. :)

[OliverD]

100 Clark Street PAC application courtesy of yourfred.com:

http://yourfred.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/100clark.jpg

PDF: http://yourfred.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/100clark.pdf

[OliverD]

Also noticed last night that they've begun putting up the steel for the new Lower Lincoln elementary school. I hadn't realized construction of the new school had started yet.

[Taeolas]

More roundabouts planned. (http://www.fredericton.ca/en/transportation/NR2012July17Roundabouts.asp#1757). The next one, after Cliff/2NC, will be Bishops@Lian, construction to start soon after Cliff/2NC is done later this year.

I know there are some complaints about the roundabouts, but I like them. I don't use them that often but traffic does seem smoother with them in place.

Though I do wonder if we should try some of the busier intersections, like Woodstock and Smythe, or Hanwell and Bishop or Bishop and Regent. :)

And replying to myself here to link in the CBC story about roundabouts. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2012/07/23/nb-fredericton-traffic-roundabouts-941.html)

What's of interest is that the City is saying they're starting with some of the less trafficed intersections for now to get people used to them; but the busier intersections WILL be done eventually. As I said above, Smythe @ Woodstock will probably be done eventually. They have more than enough space for it, and the traffic controls are already ugly there with 5 roads meeting there.

I'd also love to see 2NC @ St Marys street done eventually. That intersection is annoying because the lights always seem to be against you, even if nothing's going the other direction. But they'll probably wait for the Overpass to be built first.

The ends of Bishop (Bishop @ Arnold and Bishop @ Hanwell) may warrant roundabouts too, especially the Arnold end.

[Freddypop]

And replying to myself here to link in the CBC story about roundabouts. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2012/07/23/nb-fredericton-traffic-roundabouts-941.html)

What's of interest is that the City is saying they're starting with some of the less trafficed intersections for now to get people used to them; but the busier intersections WILL be done eventually. As I said above, Smythe @ Woodstock will probably be done eventually. They have more than enough space for it, and the traffic controls are already ugly there with 5 roads meeting there.

I'd also love to see 2NC @ St Marys street done eventually. That intersection is annoying because the lights always seem to be against you, even if nothing's going the other direction. But they'll probably wait for the Overpass to be built first.

The ends of Bishop (Bishop @ Arnold and Bishop @ Hanwell) may warrant roundabouts too, especially the Arnold end.

Future round-a-bout plans can be found within the city traffic study released about a couple of years ago. Can be found on the city website. I seem to recall some of the busier intersections to be converted and considered priorities by the City were: PMB north-end realignment, Woodstook Road, King and Brunswick intersection, Brookside and Ring Road. Some of these will be dependent on the province in order to move ahead.

[cj6286]

I don't know what's so confusing about a round-a-bout? If you can't figure it out, you should maybe go back to drivers ed.

http://www.co.sheboygan.wi.us/county_depts/hwy/Hwy_Press_Release/One-Lane_Roundabout.jpg

When they first installed the Brookside round-a-bout, I had someone cut me off going in the wrong direction. I'm all for round-a-bouts, but I'm scared to see how Freddy drivers react to the two lane ones.

[mylesmalley]

It isn't as though they're even new to the area! Oromocto has had roundabouts for years.

That said, Moncton has had traffic circles for decades and there are still locals who can't handle them and you need to be especially careful if you see out of province plates on a car about to enter one.

[cl812]

dont forget the one on campus :)

[Blue Blazer]

No Kidding, I live off Brookside and use the roundabouts daily still once in a while a car will come at you in the wrong direction or someone will pull out and almost run into you.. I fully know and understand the rules of the roundabouts, its mainly the other people that really scare me

[JHikka]

A lot of people in the Maritimes seem to get nervous when you mention roundabouts. It's something so foreign to them that they literally can't drive them without imagining getting into an accident. They're not really all that difficult, you just need to keep your eyes open. Driving through Oromocto you can do three or four right after the other.

[Steeple Shanks]

A lot of people in the Maritimes seem to get nervous when you mention roundabouts. It's something so foreign to them that they literally can't drive them without imagining getting into an accident. They're not really all that difficult, you just need to keep your eyes open. Driving through Oromocto you can do three or four right after the other.

There lies the answer. I have often driven in Britain. At first it was terrifying, being on the other side of the road as well. After a while it is just becomes a matter of course.

[Bishop2047]

So Siemens will be opening its new NB power funded office in town. 40 positions so I hear.

[Blue Blazer]

I havent been in the regent mall in over a month if not more, any word on the new stores in there besides Bath and body works and H&M

[Taeolas]

Lots of construction going on inside the mall, but it's mainly new stores moving to new digs. Fairweather switched to the other side of their hallway, taking the corner next to Sports Check where the jeweler was. Pearl Vision is down the middle corridor now; Laura Secord is down near Rocky Mountain/Source. Tanjay/Alia are in temporary locations while their new store is being built as well. Of course that means there's a big chunk being reworked now along the old Sketches to Tanjay section, which I believe is where H&M is going to go (according to other comments here).

I think Regent is pretty close to full capacity now, especially with H&M taking up a lot of the freed up space. The only empty spot that doesn't seem to have much work going on at the moment is the old Mmmm Muffins spot.

Considering most of the new retail growth nowadays is in Corbett Centre (and theoretically Brookside and 2NC), I doubt Regent would look at this. But let's say Regent Mall did want to expand to add more to it. How could they do that?

About the only space they have to expand into would be to encourage Empire to move out, and shoot out another leg along that corridor, maybe with Empire at the end again to anchor. Of course they would lose a lot of parking, so maybe a 2 story parking garage to fill in the lost parking would work too. The other option might be to kick off from Sears. That end of the parking lot is usually less full, so they could probably expand into it and give Sears a new store to anchor it.

[OliverD]

About the only space they have to expand into would be to encourage Empire to move out, and shoot out another leg along that corridor, maybe with Empire at the end again to anchor. Of course they would lose a lot of parking, so maybe a 2 story parking garage to fill in the lost parking would work too. The other option might be to kick off from Sears. That end of the parking lot is usually less full, so they could probably expand into it and give Sears a new store to anchor it.

I think that the more realistic scenario is that both Empire Theatres and Walmart will eventually move out and free up a lot of space.

[Blue Blazer]

I know a few years ago I heard Walmart wanted out on their own. Which really wouldnt surprise me too much since Walmart does not like being connected to malls.. Nice super centre walmart would be real nice.. and new movie theatres too, like the ones in Moncton would be nice, all theatre seating...

[Taeolas]

Yeah, Empire is long past due to redo the Freddy theatres. We've had them for what? 15-20 years now without a major renovation? I'm not sure where they would put a new cinama block but it would probably be standalone. They probably want it in the Corbett centre, but there doesn't seem to be a good spot for it that wouldn't eat into the Woodlot more. Sadly, Regent mall doesn't have enough parking to build an independent building, otherwise the corner of the parking lot near Chapters might work for a new theater.

North side would be a nice location, maybe in Brookside once Zellars is gone. Keep it a standalone building but tear down the Zellars anchor. I don't think 2NC has a big enough pad left for a theater there, but it might be doable.

Of course I'd love us to have 2 theatres again here in this city; one North and one South side.

[Blue Blazer]

I think the Theatres opened in the Regent Mall in 1995 or 1996.. I agree it would be nice to put them right on top of the wetlands I am all for that. Have a nice big Super center walmart there too.. I can see some of them stores being built there in the future..

Also there is plenty of room for a movie theatre on 2nc. tons of land in front of Kents and Canadian Tire and Walmart. Doesnt have to be a huge one either just 4 theatres would be more than enough.. I see they upgrade the ones in Dieppe by the Crystal palace..

[OliverD]

I could see Walmart and the theatres moving to the south side of Bishop Drive, west of World Class Auto.

[KnoxfordGuy]

I took these today and uploaded them via Flickr.

work is going well at York House. I love what they are doing! I was worried for a long time that the building was going to sit and rot before anything was done (such as the train station...also on York lol)

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8025/7651636138_cc458bfd2c_b.jpg

They are doing a great job! Giving it a good clean too! The bricks and stone were black with age...you can see at the base of the door what I'm talking about:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8281/7652053078_395fe3208b_c.jpg

Also something cool. These two apartments are being built close to my place on Charlotte street! They are doing a great infill job because this was a empty lot, now there are two places built to go with the look of the century old buildings on Charlotte St! (The blue one on the right behind the huge tree and the one beside it) :D

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7651834160_e56e7535e8_b.jpg

[KnoxfordGuy]

Also...a Canada Day pic from Officers Square by me to add some colour to this site! :yes:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/7652553992_4b54e18070_b.jpg

[cl812]

nice pics.

[cl812]

Yeah, Empire is long past due to redo the Freddy theatres. We've had them for what? 15-20 years now without a major renovation? I'm not sure where they would put a new cinama block but it would probably be standalone. They probably want it in the Corbett centre, but there doesn't seem to be a good spot for it that wouldn't eat into the Woodlot more. Sadly, Regent mall doesn't have enough parking to build an independent building, otherwise the corner of the parking lot near Chapters might work for a new theater.

North side would be a nice location, maybe in Brookside once Zellars is gone. Keep it a standalone building but tear down the Zellars anchor. I don't think 2NC has a big enough pad left for a theater there, but it might be doable.

Of course I'd love us to have 2 theatres again here in this city; one North and one South side.

The theatres are definately in major need of a reno, the prices keep going up and the experience isnt that great, I personally would rather watch a movie at home. It just isnt worth the cost for how uncormfortable it is to go to the movies. Not to mention all the comercials at the beginning of movies now.

[cj6286]

I think the north side has the right demographics now to have its own movie theatre. It would be nice if they did anything on the 2NC property instead of seeing the wasteland of gravel and dead grass.

[Blue Blazer]

cj, I agree its been almost 3 years and no new development up.. I dont know what they are waiting for anyways.. Also I agree with the comment on how people rather watch a movie at home i do agree.. I do like being able to hit the pause button and go for a drink or a restroom break

[Pugsley]

Also...a Canada Day pic from Officers Square by me to add some colour to this site! :yes:

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/7652553992_4b54e18070_b.jpg

WOW, when the new hotel is finally built beside the CC this pic will have a nice URBAN look to it. Events in the square will have a nice background of taller buildings nestled around it! Very nice!

[Pugsley]

Also something cool. These two apartments are being built close to my place on Charlotte street! They are doing a great infill job because this was a empty lot, now there are two places built to go with the look of the century old buildings on Charlotte St! (The blue one on the right behind the huge tree and the one beside it) :D

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7651834160_e56e7535e8_b.jpg

WOW! These look great! It is nice to see that the developers are becomming more sensitive to the surrounding streetscapes when building in-fill projects. They remind me of the places you find in older US cities like Philadelphia or Boston...where NEW structures are designed to blend in seamlessly with the heritage stock! I hope these become the new benchmark for more projects in the downtown core as opposed to the suburban-style siding-clad boxes with cheap railings that have taken over spaces in the past!

[OliverD]

cj, I agree its been almost 3 years and no new development up.. I dont know what they are waiting for anyways.. Also I agree with the comment on how people rather watch a movie at home i do agree.. I do like being able to hit the pause button and go for a drink or a restroom break

I don't think the demand for smaller retail stores is quite there yet. The 2NC Canadian Tire and Walmart never seem to be nearly as busy as their southside counterparts and I suspect opening other stores there could be quite risky.

Hopefully we will see the area grow organically over the next few years. It would be the perfect location for a TD branch since we don't have one on the northside, for example.

The population growth in Devon, Brookside West, West Hills, North Brook, etc, will also help.

[Taeolas]

Bus service would help hugely there I think. Sure they "tried" running a route along there; but the route itself stopped running long before the stores closed, making it basically a peak hour only route and rough for bus riders to use to stop there after work for example. (I've constantly said that Freddy Transit's schedule makes no practical sense).

Getting the interchange built at 2NC so Brookside traffic can get into there easier will help as well. As is, people from the Brookside and the Eastern end of Freddy North almost have an easier time to get to the south side stores than to get to the 3 at 2NC.

A TD branch would be nice there, since there's no real banking options there. IIRC Northside doesn't have a Scotia Bank either so one going in there would work too.

Personally, I don't really think there's room for a proper cinema in front of those stores; especially with their listed pad-space plans. I wouldn't want to go under a 6 screen theatre, and 12 would be asking a lot but I'd rather shoot for the moon; or at least have the room to expand into it. That said, there's a road right beside Walmart that leads back a bit that would have lots of room for a big theatre and parking support for it.

[OliverD]

Personally, I don't really think there's room for a proper cinema in front of those stores; especially with their listed pad-space plans. I wouldn't want to go under a 6 screen theatre, and 12 would be asking a lot but I'd rather shoot for the moon; or at least have the room to expand into it. That said, there's a road right beside Walmart that leads back a bit that would have lots of room for a big theatre and parking support for it.

There's also ~185 acres of land for sale behind and beside Walmart, some of which is dirt cheap ($1000/acre). The rest is much more expensive ($23k/acre). Lots of room for development.

[Blue Blazer]

Taeolas The northside does have a Scoitabank its in the Plaza on Main Street with Foodland

[Taeolas]

Doh yes. I knew that. It seems to me there is another branch missing on the North Side but I can't remember which. Let's see..

RBC: Brookside Mall
Scotia: Foodland mall.
CIBC: Superstore Mall.
TD: Drive thru ATM outside shoppers.
BMO: on Main street.

Damn, I must have had a constant brain fart and never 'saw' the Scotiabank at Foodland even though I knew it was there.

OK Put a full TD branch at 2NC and we're all set. :)


There's also ~185 acres of land for sale behind and beside Walmart, some of which is dirt cheap ($1000/acre). The rest is much more expensive ($23k/acre). Lots of room for development.

I think we're talking the same general area. And yes, tonnes of room for development there.

[Blue Blazer]

Also a Credit Union on Hughes Street.

Yeah I didnt know there was a Foodland, last time i was there it was Price Chopper, I think ive only been on that grocery store 5 times.. Not a big fan of the smell in there

[Taeolas]

Also a Credit Union on Hughes Street.

Yeah I didnt know there was a Foodland, last time i was there it was Price Chopper, I think ive only been on that grocery store 5 times.. Not a big fan of the smell in there

Sobey's has been busy consolidating their sisterbrands lately. Which included rebranding Price Chopper to Foodland and similar changes. The changeover here only happened within the last year or so. (Google Street View still shows it as a Price Chopper). As for the store itself, it isn't too bad, but it's in desperate need of a gut and cleaning. An expansion is out given its target market, but strip it down to the rafters, give it a thorough cleaning and painting and tiling and it would be a really nice little store.

[KnoxfordGuy]

Does anyone know what the building going up at the hospital is?

[Justin6463]

Does anyone know what the building going up at the hospital is?

It's going to be apartments for families from out of town to stay in while somebody is admitted long term. Like a Ronald McDonald house.

[Justin6463]

Speaking of Priestman St. Does anybody know what's going on by the apartments across from the school? Too small to be a apartment itself. Also no basement, I'm thinking drive through of some kind?

[KnoxfordGuy]

Any news on the historic building across from the Playhouse? Was it sold? Oh god, I hope it isn't taken down :( What do you guys think it would be good for? I have no idea at this point lol

[OliverD]

Any news on the historic building across from the Playhouse? Was it sold? Oh god, I hope it isn't taken down :( What do you guys think it would be good for? I have no idea at this point lol

What are you talking about?

[KnoxfordGuy]

What are you talking about?

The brick building built in 1855. A court house wasnt it?

[Taeolas]

Still not understanding what building you're talking about. Around the Playhouse is the Lord Beaverbrook Hotel, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the Provincial Legislative Buildings and BiCentennial Place. None of them are likely to be taken down any time soon.

Oh wait, I see a small building next to the hotel. From Google Streetview you can see a NB Gov sign on it with "Public Safety" on it.

[Freddypop]

Any news on the historic building across from the Playhouse? Was it sold? Oh god, I hope it isn't taken down :( What do you guys think it would be good for? I have no idea at this point lol

Haven't heard anything. It was up for an RFP and or similar earlier this year. Playhouse had expressed some public interest for future purposes but nothing ever happened. Would have thought the Crowne Plaza would have jumped at the prospect of adding adjacent land

[Blue Blazer]

any word when they are going to start digging for the Hampton inn. it says 2013 on the sign from the highway .. you would think they would want to get started on that right now, while the weather is nice

[cj6286]

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eqvJ7elssSjHNZucqYH__QVLgrybnejTGgnzTUNnrSfGQ8YJAjncCWjrAKSYFhG13qZxU-lGYO8

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/foY9k0mxlAKjpNzx90dqHaLRZXwrxKzOxhuNxuyd6Vt2ehmR0cfTejs7jvBIbkft2nOI_PY2T7U

I checked out the Ashley Crescent development, and it's finally been paved. I wouldn't be surprised to see some more houses pop up before the first snowfall.

[cj6286]

I noticed tonight that they're prepping the Reynolds/McKnight Street intersection for the round-a-bout.

[Freddypop]

any word when they are going to start digging for the Hampton inn. it says 2013 on the sign from the highway .. you would think they would want to get started on that right now, while the weather is nice

Developer has requested changes to original design ie 6 floors instead of original 5 due to required space for emergency vehicles. Would expect construction to start in the fall after council approval

[Blue Blazer]

cj6286 I live around that area , I didnt see any prep work, I am around Jeremy Street ??? I am hoping you are mistake I already have to drive threw one of them a day :yuck:


Also i dont think there is new traffic there for a round about

[Taeolas]

The next roundabout I thought was going to be on Bishop Drive anyways. I wouldn't think there was enough traffic down there to warrent one, but it is on the bus route; maybe they want to have one for the buses to start getting used to?

[Taeolas]

From the CBC (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2012/08/01/nb-fourth-generation-family-farm-sold.html):
4th generation family farm to be sold piece by piece


...
Marcello Battilana, manager of community planning with the City of Fredericton, says the redevelopment of the farm property will happen in stages.

"We're trying to create a dense, diverse, walkable community, and this development provides us with an opportunity to satisfy some of those objectives," he said.

The city is working with private developers to come up with something that fits the municipal plan.

[Blue Blazer]

From the CBC (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2012/08/01/nb-fourth-generation-family-farm-sold.html):
4th generation family farm to be sold piece by piece




Doesnt surprise me they are selling, that is alot of work to keep a place like that going.. This generation probably doesnt want to have to deal with stuff like that..

[cj6286]

Blazer, there's markings all over the road at the McKnight/Reynolds intersection. There's a huge white, dotted circle painted in the middle and lines around the curbs. It's in the master plan to have that intersection turned into a round-a-bout. I think Taeolas is right about the buses having to get used to using round-a-bouts.

In other news, bike lanes have been painted on Summerhill Row. Are there any other locations around the city that these have popped up?

[Taeolas]

Blazer, there's markings all over the road at the McKnight/Reynolds intersection. There's a huge white, dotted circle painted in the middle and lines around the curbs. It's in the master plan to have that intersection turned into a round-a-bout. I think Taeolas is right about the buses having to get used to using round-a-bouts.


Not that it really needs to be confirmed, but I swung by that corner this morning; they have marked it up with a circle in the middle and markings for islands to split traffic to flow directly and stuff. So it probably is going to be done. Either they're going to do two islands at once, or they just wanted to get the surveying done now for some reason before doing the Bishop circle. Or who knows why.

[Steeple Shanks]

I cycle that path everyday and they have marked, with spray paint, the area between the Superstore and the exhibition grounds and have begun some grading.

They have almost completed the paving. It is merely a matter of painting the markings. The ground preparation along the Woodstock road for the new sub-division is really ploughing ahead. :)

[Blue Blazer]

cj6286, funny I was going to reply to you this morning and tell you I saw the drawings on the ground this morning i was looking something to see for prep work. i though you meant prep work, as in tearing it up my bad.. I dont know if its a good idea or not, there really isnt a ton of traffic there, sometimes but rarely..

[Taeolas]

They're moving quickly on it. They scraped back some of the curbs and chopped holes in the center and where the islands will be at that intersection now.

[Blue Blazer]

Taloes, I know I drove over all that mess this morning.. I dont think its going to as big of a round about compared to the other one.. I still havent checked out the one on 2nc..

[Freddypop]

Read in this AM's local paper that the Crowne Plaza will be taking over operation of the lighthouse from the City beginning in 2013. They are working on plans for an "enhanced service". Not sure what that means but I would bet that it will become licensed and perhaps a food service.

Also same article stated that the company that owns the Crowne Plaza had the highest bid for the adjacent property (former York County Courthouse). Bid was 800K. I think it is safe to say that the structure would be torn down allowing for a future expansion of the Crowne Plaza. I know that this had been discussed a few years back that there was some intent by Crowne Plaza to move forward with an expansion but with the purchase this should now set things in motion

[cl812]

With the convention centre hotel delayed, it may be a good oppourtunity for the Crown Plaza to get the jump on them, if it ever happens at all.

[Bishop2047]

Northside market was GREAT! Many vendors had tables in place stating they would be established at a latter date. What a great addition to the Northside.

[Steeple Shanks]

Northside market was GREAT! Many vendors had tables in place stating they would be established at a latter date. What a great addition to the Northside.

What is the Northside Market? My wife and I often shop on the north side, even though we live on the south, but have not heard of the Northside market.

[Taeolas]

A new Farmers Market; it was announced last May or June for a July opening but it was delayed a bit. It's located on the hill, near Pizza Delight, at the old Furniture (and many other stores) store.

IIRC, they're planning to have a 3 day week there; Friday, Saturdays and Sundays.

[Bishop2047]

http://www.thenorthsidemarket.ca/viewcustompage.php?id=12669

Here is the site for the new Market, with hours and other info.

[cj6286]

I see they've built a temporary park beside the Convention Centre, and I suppose to keep people from parking there illegally. I guess it's better than looking at a vacant lot until, or if ever the hotel is built.

[Steeple Shanks]

I passed by St. Hubert on Sunday and noticed though the parking lot was empty the restaurant was full of people. Is it open?

[Taeolas]

I think they're doing some dry runs first before opening. Yesterday it was busy, but not open that we could tell. Just a tonne and a half of people in black shirts. I would expect them to open this week sometime though.

[Freddypop]

I passed by St. Hubert on Sunday and noticed though the parking lot was empty the restaurant was full of people. Is it open?

Opens this Wednesday..August 8

[OliverD]

The Lofts on York have a web site: http://theloftsonyork.ca/

Not much info, but I noticed it said each unit has covered parking. I wonder how they are accomplishing that.

[KnoxfordGuy]

:previous: I cant wait till this place is done! It will make that part of York look sooooo posh...ish lol

[Blue Blazer]

I noticed there is a drive thru as well for this st heburt place that is real class. Hopefully their prices are reasonable.. I cant imagine paying good money for drive thru food

[Taeolas]

I haven't been to St Hubert in years, but it's probably similar overall to Swiss Chalet, both in quality and in price. The Drive Thru is part of the "express" branding. (Even Swiss Chalet has had Drive Thru's in some of their restaurants; usually when they were cobranded with Harveys). It'll probably be a few weeks before I get a chance to try it out, but I'm looking forward to it.

And on another note, I meant to mention this before, but I was shocked to see the KFC on Prospect being expanded and renovated. (I wonder if it's a response to St Hubert's arrival?). Mainly I'm shocked because I don't think I've EVER seen a KFC renovated after it was built initially. Goodness knows, the one on Prospect was well past due for a redo. (as is the one on Main street too). Now if only they would get the US style Extra Crispy Chicken, Biscuits and Coleslaw (instead of Green Goop), I'd be in heaven.

[KnoxfordGuy]

Does anyone know the dimensions of the apartment building going up here, on the corner of Regent and Beaverbrook?

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8294/7732583240_7cdcc65962_c.jpg
My pic via flickr. Sorry for the bad quality.

[Blue Blazer]

Taeolas, That is good hopefully it will be good i wont be negeative until i try it.. I didnt notice that KFC was getting a face life i havent stepped foot in the kfc on prospect or main street in years if not decades.. i did have taco bell in the regent mall a few times but other than that no kfc. The buildings look like they should have been condemned. I wonder if this kfc will have a taco bell with it ?

[Taeolas]

From what I heard, the mall Taco Bell was doing really well when it opened and they were considering a second Freddy Location. I don't know if they have the same owners as the Prospect KFC, but it is a possibility; both to tap into the FHS demand and to give them a TB with more flexibility in its hours.

[OliverD]

Does anyone know the dimensions of the apartment building going up here, on the corner of Regent and Beaverbrook?

From a Gleaner story from Jan 2011:

The Thompsons want to change the eight-unit brick building on the site to six units and construct a second building on the property containing 32 units. The new building will be four storeys and have underground parking for 28 vehicles.

[kirjtc2]

And on another note, I meant to mention this before, but I was shocked to see the KFC on Prospect being expanded and renovated. (I wonder if it's a response to St Hubert's arrival?). Mainly I'm shocked because I don't think I've EVER seen a KFC renovated after it was built initially. Goodness knows, the one on Prospect was well past due for a redo. (as is the one on Main street too). Now if only they would get the US style Extra Crispy Chicken, Biscuits and Coleslaw (instead of Green Goop), I'd be in heaven.

All the KFCs in NB have been sold to a new franchisee, and they've said they're going to renovate them all. It was in the Gleaner or TJ a few months back.

Going to be interesting to see how they tackle the Main St store...it's puny as it is and there's not much room for expansion there.

[Taeolas]

Ah good to hear; not that I eat there often. But they are so past due for renovations it isn't funny. Hell I remember when the Woodstock store opened in the mall in '94 or so, and it hasn't been touched ever since.

The Main street store could expand sideways to get enough room for a dining room. They could also go backwards and close off the Wallace Avenue entrance if they needed to.

[OliverD]

Going to be interesting to see how they tackle the Main St store...it's puny as it is and there's not much room for expansion there.

They should just close it and build a KFC/Taco Bell on 2NC.

[kirjtc2]

Ah good to hear; not that I eat there often. But they are so past due for renovations it isn't funny. Hell I remember when the Woodstock store opened in the mall in '94 or so, and it hasn't been touched ever since.

Yeah, I never go there either. If I'm in the mood for fried chicken I just go to the deli at Sobeys.

And 1994? Hell...the Fredericton stores haven't been touched since Colonel Sanders was still alive.

[Blue Blazer]

In the old blockbuster on the northside they have some red cross aka Thrift store in there.. doesnt really look super appealing. Also they are tearing up Main Street they have some pavers and road crew out there today

[Bishop2047]

I believe that is a Salvation army.

[IronRobi]

All the KFCs in NB have been sold to a new franchisee, and they've said they're going to renovate them all. It was in the Gleaner or TJ a few months back.

Going to be interesting to see how they tackle the Main St store...it's puny as it is and there's not much room for expansion there.

Was the new franchisee "Franchise Management Inc" or were they the ones who owned it previously? I've noticed the KFC in Moncton is going under renovations right now as well.

[Blue Blazer]

Ironrob hopefully when I was on Main STreet today i didnt see any renos on the northside one but then again that doesnt surprise me .. KFC needs a major reboot

[OliverD]

Framing is starting to go up for the first of the new Union Street apartment buildings.

[OliverD]

Speaking of Priestman St. Does anybody know what's going on by the apartments across from the school? Too small to be a apartment itself. Also no basement, I'm thinking drive through of some kind?

Drove by today and they are starting the framing. Looked like a duplex or townhouse to me.