The provincial and federal governments announced new funding for three projects that will increase the efficiency and safety of the transportation system in New Brunswick.
Premier David Alward and National Revenue Minister Keith Ashfield, who is also minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and minister for the Atlantic Gateway, made the announcements in Fredericton, Saint John and Dieppe.
“The announcements today are yet another example of the strong partnership we have developed with the federal government,” said Alward. “These projects will provide New Brunswick with an opportunity to enhance our transportation systems and sow the seeds of significant economic growth in the province.”
These investments include:
• upgrading lighting and a runway at the Fredericton International Airport;
• extending a runway at the Greater Moncton International Airport to strengthen its position as an international air cargo hub; and
• expanding the cruise berth and passenger handling capacity at the Port of Saint John.
“Building strong transportation infrastructure is an important part of New Brunswick’s economic growth and prosperity,” said Ashfield. “New Brunswick’s economy will benefit from a strengthened transportation network, and the Harper government is proud to partner with the provincial government to support this province in capturing its full potential as a transportation corridor.”
Fredericton International Airport: runway and lighting upgrades
• Paving and lighting upgrades will be undertaken to improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of the airport. These improvements are expected to facilitate increased trade and traffic through the airport.
• Total investment: $10.4 million. The federal government is contributing up to $5.2 million, with the remainder to be provided equally by the provincial government and the Fredericton International Airport Authority.
Greater Moncton International Airport: runway extension
• This project will extend the airport’s main runway to 945 metres (10,500 feet) from 553 metres (6,150 feet) to enable the airport to handle larger wide-bodied and heavy aircraft. This is expected to enhance the airport’s position as a key international air cargo hub and to facilitate increased trade and traffic through the airport.
• Total investment: $24 million. The federal government is contributing up to $4 million, while the provincial government is contributing $4 million, with the remainder to be provided by the Greater Moncton International Airport Authority.
Port of Saint John: Cruise Gateway
• This project will expand the berthing capacity of the Port of Saint John, allowing for increased international travel to the city and maximizing opportunities for economic growth in the Atlantic cruise industry.
• Total investment: $14 million. The federal government is contributing up to $4.5 million, with the remainder to be provided equally by the Port of Saint John and the provincial government.
