New Brunswick paves the way for new border crossing

ST. STEPHEN, N.B. — Federal and provincial funds are being used to help develop a new land border crossing in Atlantic Canada, something not seen for 30 years.

New Brunswick recently unveiled a new 23-km section of highway at St. Stephen, which is part of a project to rehabilitate Route 1 and ultimately create a new border crossing in the region.

This upgrade, with investments from both the federal and provincial governments, is another investment leading to the completion of the first new border crossing to the United States in Atlantic Canada in 30 years.

"The completion of this highway is another Charter for Change commitment that will bring forth very tangible results," said N.B. Premier Shawn Graham. "It is an example of our self-sufficiency agenda at work, investing in strategic infrastructure between Calais-St. Stephen and Saint John that will develop the New Brunswick Energy Hub and make our province more competitive."

The newly constructed highway section is part of a larger project to complete the twinning and rehabilitation of Route 1, the construction of a new border crossing facility and a new international bridge between St. Stephen and Calais.

While 23 km of four-lane highway on Route 1 were opened to traffic recently, the international bridge is expected to be open in summer 2009.

"This project represents the kind of collaboration that is necessary to make our highways safer while also creating economic development opportunities," said N.B. Transportation Minister Denis Landry. “This major undertaking reflects a positive relationship between our governments that is making a difference for people and communities."

The St. Stephen bypass project will significantly reduce congestion inside the urban area and at the existing local border. It will also modernize the Canada-U.S. border through improved infrastructure, new technology and shared information for safe and efficient movement of goods and people.

The federal government has contributed $30 million towards the St. Stephen bypass project through the $600-million Border Infrastructure Fund. The fund provides financial assistance for infrastructure projects that reduce border congestion, improve the flow of goods and services, and expand existing infrastructure.
 


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