Port Saint John receives federal funding for overhaul project

Canada's Port Saint John has received $68.3m of federal government funding to modernise the port's Westside terminals.

Canada’s Port Saint John has received $68.3m of federal government funding to modernise the port’s Westside terminals.

Secured under the national infrastructure component of the New Building Canada fund, the federal finances will support a $205m overhaul project.

The project aims to improve and consolidate Rodney and Navy Island terminals in order to enable the Port to receive larger vessels.

Saint John MP Rodney Weston said: "As part of its New Building Canada plan, our government is investing in priority infrastructure projects that focus on creating jobs and promoting long-term prosperity across Canada.

"We are pleased to support the Port Saint John’s plans to modernise and expand its operations.

"Our government is investing in priority infrastructure projects that focus on creating jobs and promoting long-term prosperity across Canada."

"This work will not only support business growth for the port, but stimulate broader economic development at the local, regional and national level."

The upgrading programme will also see the installation of new operational systems and technologies to improve cargo-handling capabilities.

Under the 60-acre project area, 25 acres will be transformed into container storage and ten acres into a multipurpose yard.

The remaining section is asigned for terminal access roads, stevedoring operations, trans-loading and cargo-consolidation warehouses, and lay-down areas for break-bulk and project cargoes.

Moreover, the port’s main channel will be from 8.4m to 10m, as part of the programme.

The new upgrades will boost the port’s ability to meet industry demands, and support its contribution to the regional and national economy.

Port Saint John currently handles an average of 28 million tonnes of diverse cargo a year.