If you drive on Saint John’s west side, navigating Simms Corner is a true rite of passage. You face a confusing mix of stop signs, yield signs, multiple lanes, and unpredictable train crossings. Soon, this notorious intersection will become a problem of the past.

The intersection is getting a complete transformation. This overhaul is part of a $463 million investment to upgrade the Saint John Trade Corridor, as reported by CTV News Atlantic.

Residents Welcome the Change

Locals are thrilled about the upcoming changes. Tammy Bedford of St. Stephen calls the redevelopment a long time coming. She notes the corner is dangerous and stressful for everyone.

Maddyson Hartlen shares a similar sentiment, calling the current setup absolutely horrendous. Amy Hamilton adds that the upgrade is well overdue, describing the intersection as a place where drivers simply have to fend for themselves.

Fixing the Train Traffic Problem

Saint John Mayor Donna Reardon points out that the intersection technically works for vehicle traffic, but trains create major bottlenecks. Trains pass through about three times a day without a set schedule. This causes 20 minute waits for drivers trying to get to work or medical appointments.

With J.D. Irving Limited upgrading its west side mill and the Port of Saint John expanding its capacity, train traffic will only increase. To solve this, the new design separates the road and the railway. Cars will travel on a level above the train tracks.

Construction Timeline and Next Steps

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt confirms the construction will cause disruptions. She emphasizes that separating the rail and the road requires significant work, but it gives Saint John residents the infrastructure they need.

The province aims to complete the intersection by 2030. Because of the project scope, the timeline extends beyond that year. Meanwhile, the city previously set aside $3 million for a roundabout at Simms Corner. The city will now use those funds for a different quality of life project on the west side.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure plans to host a public meeting about the project in late November or early December.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is happening to Simms Corner?

The province and city are redeveloping the intersection to separate vehicle traffic from train traffic. Cars will drive on an overpass above the railway tracks.

Why is the redevelopment necessary?

Increasing train traffic from the growing Port of Saint John and local industry causes unpredictable 20 minute delays for drivers. The new design eliminates these bottlenecks.

When will the project be finished?

The provincial government targets a completion date of 2030, though the extensive construction work pushes the final date further into the future.

Will there be public input?

Yes. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure will hold a public meeting in late November or early December to discuss the project details.