Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians in Saint John will soon see significant changes on Station Street and City Road. The City of Saint John has announced a new project to improve safety and encourage active transportation by adding dedicated bike lanes and reconfiguring vehicle lanes.

According to an official notice from the City of Saint John, work is scheduled to begin the week of October 13, weather permitting.

What Changes to Expect

The project focuses on the stretch of Station Street and City Road between Smythe Street and the Stanley Street active transportation bridge. The most visible change will be the painting of new, dedicated bike lanes on both sides of the road.

To make room for these lanes, the streets will undergo a ‘road diet’. This process involves reducing the number of vehicle lanes from four to three. This adjustment is designed to calm traffic and create a safer environment for everyone.

Benefits of a ‘Road Diet’

While reducing car lanes might sound like it would increase congestion, the City states this design helps maintain good traffic flow. The key benefits of the project include:

• Safer Driving Speeds: Narrower road configurations naturally encourage drivers to reduce their speed.
• Improved Pedestrian Safety: Slower traffic and fewer lanes to cross make the street safer for people on foot.
• Dedicated Space for Cyclists: The new bike lanes provide a protected area for cyclists, separating them from vehicle traffic.

These improvements are part of Saint John’s long-term transportation strategy, MoveSJ, and connect to the Trans Canada Trail, creating a more cohesive network for active transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a ‘road diet’?

A road diet is a traffic calming technique that reconfigures a road to reduce the number of vehicle lanes. In this case, Station Street and City Road will go from four lanes to three to create space for bike lanes and improve overall safety.

Which streets are affected by these changes?

The project will be implemented on Station Street and City Road, specifically on the section that runs from Smythe Street to the Stanley Street active transportation bridge.

When will the work begin?

The work is set to start during the week of October 13, but the schedule depends on the weather.

Will this cause traffic problems?

The City of Saint John explains that the three-lane configuration is designed to maintain good traffic flow while encouraging safer speeds. Motorists should be aware of the new road layout once the work is complete.