Planning and pre-design work are underway to look at improving a troublesome west Saint John intersection.
Simms Corner is described as a “critical component” that helps support and advance the region’s economy.
In a letter to Saint John’s mayor dated March 6, the deputy transportation and infrastructure minister said the province is committed to helping redesign the intersection.
Rob Taylor said a team of subject matter experts and representatives from the city, the province, J.D. Irving, Limited and Port Saint John “has been assembled to work through this important project.”
“The team has been meeting regularly since last fall, sharing information, and ensuring that various perspectives about the current and future uses of Simms Corner are considered,” wrote Taylor.
“This project needs to meet the needs of the next 50 years of growth in your city and not only respond to the last 50 years of challenges.”
Taylor said the department has also executed a contract with engineering firm EXP, which is leading the design work.
Truck and rail traffic through the notorious intersection are expected to increase over the coming years.
However, revitalizing the intersection is expected to require a “large investment” from all levels of government, according to Taylor.
“Although Simms Corner is a compled multi-year and multi-partner project, it is a critical component to supporting and advancing the many Saint John businesses that help power the provincial economy,” he said.
“This is more critical with the ongoing trade war imposed by President Trump.”
Council voted Monday evening to ask the department to give a formal briefing on this project at their April 3 meeting.
