Navigating the New Main Street

The extensive reconstruction of one of Saint John’s key arteries is finally complete. The City of Saint John announced the successful conclusion of the Main Street Activation Project, a major initiative designed to improve safety and traffic flow for everyone. The changes are significant, introducing new features and traffic patterns that you need to be aware of. According to the official city announcement, this project represents a major investment in building a safer, more connected community.

What’s New for Drivers?

If you drive along Main Street, you will notice several key changes designed to calm traffic and increase safety.

• Fewer Lanes: The road has been reduced to two lanes in each direction.
• New Yield Rule: When turning right from Union Street onto Main Street, you must now yield to oncoming traffic.
• Intersection Changes: Stop signs have been added at Station Street and Paradise Row. The intersections at these streets, along with Portland Street, have been reconfigured for better sight lines.
• New Traffic Lights: Expect a new signal at the Route 1 Eastbound off-ramp near the Red Rose Building. Another new signal at the intersection of Main, Metcalf, and Simonds now uses vehicle detection technology.
• No Left Turn: You can no longer turn left from Main Street onto Metcalf Street.
• Bike Boxes: Be aware of new green-painted zones at intersections. These are ‘bike boxes,’ and you must stop your vehicle before them, not in them.

A Safer Ride for Cyclists

Cyclists will find a much-improved and safer experience on Main Street with a network of dedicated infrastructure.

• Protected Bike Lanes: New lanes physically separated from vehicle traffic provide a safer route.
• Specialized Signals: At the Main, Metcalf, and Simonds intersection, cyclists have designated waiting areas and signals. Use the left-turn bike boxes to turn safely.
• Bike Detection: Overhead sensors at key intersections detect cyclists waiting in designated spots and activate the bike signals.
• Multi-Use Paths: New paths are in place along the Viaduct and between Metcalf Street and Lansdowne Avenue. Remember to use the lane closest to traffic.

Upgrades for Pedestrians

Walking along and across Main Street is now safer and more accessible.

• Audible Signals: New audible pedestrian signals have been installed at the Main and Metcalf intersection and the Route 1 Eastbound ramp intersection.
• Tactile Surfaces: All major crossings now feature tactile walking surface indicators to assist visually impaired pedestrians.
• New Crosswalk Beacon: A Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon with audible tones has been installed at the Route 1 Westbound ramp crossing on the Viaduct to improve pedestrian visibility and safety.
• Shared Paths: On multi-use paths, pedestrians should keep to the outer edge, away from the cyclist lane.

The City encourages everyone to take extra care, follow all new signs and signals, and familiarize themselves with the new layout. Educational materials are available on the City’s website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a ‘bike box’?

A bike box is a green-painted area on the road at an intersection, located ahead of where cars stop. It provides a safe, visible space for cyclists to wait for a traffic light to change.

Can I still turn left from Main Street onto Metcalf Street?

No, left turns for vehicles from Main Street onto Metcalf Street are no longer permitted as part of the new intersection design.

How do the new bike detection signals work?

Overhead sensors are positioned above designated waiting areas in the bike lanes. When a cyclist stops in this area, the sensor detects them and activates the signal for the bike lane, ensuring they get a green light in the traffic cycle.

Where can I find more details about these changes?

The City of Saint John has provided detailed information and diagrams on its official website, www.saintjohn.ca, to help residents understand the new road features.