A new chapter is about to begin for the Community Peace Garden at Mapleton Park.

Organizers say a sod-turning ceremony will take place Thursday at 11 a.m. next to the Mapleton Rotary Pavilion, with construction scheduled to start Monday.

The Community Peace Garden Development Committee says about $75,000 has been raised so far, with fundraising efforts continuing.

The ceremony falls on Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, and the United Nations International Day of Non-Violence. Both are recognized globally as symbols of peace and nonviolent resistance.

“This Peace Garden will be more than just a beautiful space,” said Sherry Trenholm, co-chair of the Community Peace Garden. “It will serve as a place where people from all walks of life can gather, reflect, and grow together.”

The project is a collaboration between the Community Peace Garden Development Committee, the City of Moncton, the Province of New Brunswick, Green Cities Foundation, Trees of Life, community partners, and residents.

City councillor Shawn Crossman is expected to attend the sod-turning, along with other local partners. Media interviews and photo opportunities will be available on-site, along with project renderings.

Once completed, the Community Peace Garden will provide a public green space dedicated to peace, reflection, and community connection