The City of Saint John is introducing a new rebate program it hopes will drive more people into the uptown. The city's Sidewalk Café Rebate Initiative will waive sidewalk café permit fees and the fees for parking spaces where larger patios are built. The Uptown Saint John business association said they've advocated for the rebate and are happy to see it brought in. "The formula there in that decision-making process was one that said, 'Let's make sure we're supporting our uptown businesses,' " said Hickey. Meanwhile, Hickey said he's hopeful the patio rebate will inspire more businesses to open outdoor spaces.

Source: CBC News May 04, 2021 15:11 UTC