City of Fredericton crews have made an unexpected and intriguing discovery beneath one of the city's most beloved community hubs. During recent work, a previously unknown tunnel was found running underneath the historic Boyce Farmers' Market.
An Unexpected Find During Routine Work
The discovery was made in the first week of January 2026, though the exact date of the find has not been publicly disclosed. City staff were conducting work in the area when they stumbled upon the hidden passage. The tunnel's origin, purpose, and age are currently a mystery, prompting an immediate investigation by municipal authorities.
Officials have confirmed the find but have released few details about the tunnel's dimensions or construction. The City of Fredericton has taken steps to secure the area to ensure public safety while experts begin to assess the structure. The market, a weekend staple for locals and visitors seeking fresh produce and artisan goods, remains open for business.
Unraveling the History of the Hidden Passage
The discovery has ignited speculation among historians and long-time residents. The Boyce Farmers' Market has been a fixture in Fredericton for generations, but no known records or blueprints have surfaced mentioning an underground tunnel. Theories about its purpose range from practical uses like storage or utility access to more colorful historical anecdotes, perhaps related to the city's early development.
Sean Mott first reported on the find for New Brunswick News on January 7, 2026. The city has not indicated how long the investigation might take or when more information will be shared with the public. The priority is to determine the structural integrity of the tunnel and ensure it poses no risk to the market building above.
What Comes Next for the Market and the Mystery?
The immediate consequence of the discovery is a forensic look into the market's foundations and surrounding city archives. Engineers will need to map the tunnel's full extent and understand its construction materials. Historians will likely scour old maps, property records, and personal diaries for any clues.
For now, the "mystery tunnel" adds a new layer of folklore to the Fredericton landmark. Whether it turns out to be a forgotten cellar, a prohibition-era hideaway, or simply an abandoned utility corridor, the find underscores how cities often hold secrets just beneath the surface of daily life. The City of Fredericton has promised to update citizens as their investigation progresses.
