In the late 1980's and early

1990's the St. John's metro area

was recognized for its unique network

of rivers and waterbodies all under

public ownership. Based on this observation the Johnson Family Foundation established and funded a series of study projects investigating the potential these waterbodies might serve as a trail corridor connecting the three major municipalities in the metro area.

 

The master plan for the Grand Concourse network guided the development of a high quality walkway network extending from Signal Hill in the East, through the Cities of St. John's and Mount Pearl, and to Octagon Pond in Paradise in the West. The walkways and sidewalkways in the plan would create a Walker's Paradise, providing an endless variety of outdoor experiences.

 

Initial walkway construction began in 1993 with the completion of four demonstration walks. The entire Grand Concourse network was completed in 2005 with approximately 125 km of walkways, linkages and connecting sidewalk routes. This walk network is among the finest walkway systems in Canada and has received local and international attention.

 

In addition to walkway development, the Grand Concourse Authority has undertaken a variety of projects including the development of park master plans and the design and construction of a variety of public park spaces and amenities.