A massive funding announcement of nearly half a billion dollars promises major changes for Saint John. The project includes a significant port expansion and dredging to widen the main channel. But the biggest news for local drivers is the long awaited reconstruction of the infamous Simms Corner intersection.

The End of a Traffic Nightmare

If you drive on the west side, you know the headaches of Simms Corner. The intersection is famous for awkward turns and a yield sign that forces you to cross two lanes of oncoming traffic. City planners tried to fix the layout since 2007. Past ideas included roundabouts and traffic lights. High costs and a complicated layout involving rail lines and nearby businesses always stopped the plans.

Now, the redesign is officially happening. The announcement drew a standing ovation from local business leaders and government officials.

“I do not know anybody that is disappointed that Simms Corner is going to be finally dealt with,” Deputy Mayor John MacKenzie said. “Whether you are in line waiting for trains to go by or you are just not used to it and you are a little nervous going through, whatever the case, I think everybody is pretty happy that it is going to be resolved for sure.”

New residents feel the confusion immediately. Emily Oliver recently moved to the city and experienced the chaos firsthand.

“There was a lot of honking,” Oliver said. “Took me a while to get through. And it is a little odd where you cannot turn a certain way as well. I feel like for people who have been here a long time, they are probably pretty relieved.”

Funding the Future of Port Saint John

The Simms Corner redesign is a necessary step for a much larger project. The total port expansion costs $463 million. The federal government provides $254 million through its Trade Diversification Corridors Fund. The province adds $116.5 million. J.D. Irving Ltd. contributes $72 million and the port authority covers the final $20 million.

The port expansion prepares Saint John for increased international trade. The project includes dredging the port to accommodate larger ships and longer trains.

“This is going to be a part of the international trade corridor. It is going to get much busier as the port takes on larger ships,” MacKenzie said. “There is going to be more trucks going into the pulp mill once that expansion is finished. So it needs improvement to make traffic flow and pedestrians safer.”

What to Expect During Construction

You need to prepare for traffic disruptions. The extensive work at Simms Corner will take years to complete. Officials expect the project to finish around 2029 or 2030.

Premier Susan Holt acknowledged the upcoming construction delays but emphasized the long term benefits.

“But we keep our eye on the prize,” Holt said. “This is going to mean a safer intersection. This is going to mean less delays for the people of Saint John and smoother life on the west side once this project is done.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Simms Corner?

Simms Corner is a notoriously complex intersection on the west side of Saint John. It features awkward turns, confusing yield signs, and a one way road that causes frequent traffic delays.

How much is the port expansion project?

The total funding for the port expansion is $463 million. This includes contributions from the federal government, the provincial government, J.D. Irving Ltd., and the port authority.

When will the Simms Corner redesign be finished?

The reconstruction of Simms Corner involves significant infrastructure changes. Officials expect the project to be completed between 2029 and 2030.