The City of Moncton wants to clarify that any removal of trees in Sommet Park won’t happen until the fall.
Tenants of the adjacent Aberdeen Cultural Centre and other groups felt the move would help curb drug activity and prostitution.
City spokesperson Isabelle LeBlanc says the park was no longer considered safe as a public space.
“Notably the two daycares that are there who seem to have some challenges in being able to send the children out to play any hour of the day because of possible syringes or other things being found in the park,” she notes.
LeBlanc says the City understands removing 16 trees in the park will not eradicate poverty or move transient people elsewhere.
She adds this is one part of the bigger picture as the City works with the community on finding affordable housing options.
A lot of public feedback has been received and more is encouraged.
City Council will discuss the matter at a Committee of the Whole meeting on July 23rd but a vote on a tender likely won’t happen until September.
(Image of park redesign courtesy City of Moncton)
