Another major milestone has been reached for the New Brunswick Museum modernization project in Saint John.

Last week, city council approved a municipal plan amendment and rezoning for the project on Douglas Avenue.

They also agreed to remove the heritage designation from one of four homes that need to be demolished.

Officials decided to renovate the existing museum and add an expansion rather than building a brand new facility.

When finished, the 134,000-square-foot facility will house research, exhibition, and community spaces under one roof, including a café, boutique, and library.

Provincial and federal officials announced nearly $108 million in funding for the long-awaited project in March. The museum will soon be launching a fundraising campaign for its portion.

Museum officials have said that construction should begin in the next few months.