Two Busy Intersections Still Missing Traffic Lights

There is still no clear timeframe as to when traffic lights will be installed at two busy intersections in east Saint John.

Crews reconfigured Rothesay Avenue in the area of Rothesay Road and the Route 1 westbound exit ramp last fall.

But several months later, the traffic lights are still nowhere to be seen, and COVID-19 is getting at least some of the blame.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure says because of the pandemic, the installation has been delayed until the manufacturer can increase its operating capacity.

“Once the materials are delivered to the contractor, the anticipated time to install the lights is less than two weeks, weather permitting,” said Jeremy Trevors, a spokesperson for the department.

Trevors did not respond to a follow-up email asking when the materials may be delivered.

The two intersections have been notorious for collisions and the upgrades have been welcomed by many, including one of the two city councillors who represent the area.

During a previous interview, Coun. Ray Strowbridge said the upgrades will improve safety and traffic flow, and drop the stress levels of drivers.

“You’re fighting for your life trying to get through there whenever you can punch a hole through the traffic,” said Strowbridge in August.

“It’s really challenging for the people that are waiting underneath the train bridge to get out onto the highway or onto the Rothesay Road.”

Transportation officials ran into several delays with the project last fall, such as problematic underground utilities and a concrete-encased utility duct under the railway bridge. The heavy rain from post-tropical storm Dorian in early September also flooded the site for several days.