Simms Corner, long known as one of the most challenging intersections in Saint John, is now officially recognized as a National Trade Corridor—a designation that brings both opportunity and urgency to the future of West Saint John.
For years, traffic congestion in this area has been a daily frustration for residents. The Harbour Bridge reconstruction took eight years, and the lack of progress on an overpass at Simms Corner has only made things worse. Train traffic has increased dramatically, and with three railway lines now running through the area—including the CP/KC line that stretches from Mexico City through Kansas to Toronto, Montreal, and into Saint John—we’re seeing longer, more frequent trains that disrupt traffic and daily life.
This rail line connects Saint John to a trade network of 510 million people across North America, making our port more strategically important than ever. In fact, it’s 500 miles closer to key markets than Halifax, and with the Saint Lawrence Seaway unable to accommodate larger ships, Saint John’s deep-water port is poised to play a major role in Canada’s economic future.
But with opportunity comes responsibility. We must act now to build the long-overdue overpass at Simms Corner. The federal and provincial governments are on board, and industry partners are supporting the project. This is a chance to fix a long-standing problem and unlock the full potential of our city.
This summer, while working in West Saint John, we painted 45 homes along Main Street West, Church Avenue, Lorneville, Randolph, Carleton, Milford, and the Vail. The traffic was chaotic, but the community spirit was strong. Simms Corner has always been a rite of passage for local drivers—my dad once told me it was the ultimate test. Today, it’s more than that. It’s a symbol of what Saint John can become if we work together.
We must also address the deeper issues holding Saint John back. Our city has very high poverty rates, very low post-secondary education levels, and has lost out on growth compared to other Atlantic Canadian cities. We need to retain our industrial tax revenue, invest in education, and ensure that our infrastructure supports both residents and economic development.
This past year, our food banks saw their busiest year ever. That’s a clear sign that we need systemic change. Simms Corner’s recognition as a national trade corridor is a step in the right direction—but it must be followed by action.
Let’s build the overpass. Let’s invest in our people. Let’s make Saint John a city that grows, thrives, and leads.
Love ❤️ Saint John.
