Saint John, N.B., to spend $30M on flood-resilient infrastructure projects

The City of Saint John in New Brunswick is launching a series of infrastructure projects to increase its resilience to flooding, funded in part by the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF).

The $30-million investment includes $12 million from DMAF and another $18 million from the city.

Projects include raising the Courtenay Bay Causeway to prevent flooding during storm surges and rising sea levels as well as the construction of a new pumping station to allow for drainage of the forebay during high-tide conditions.

Other projects will include rehabilitating and raising the berms to protect the Lancaster Wastewater Treatment Facility from flooding, replacing and raising the ultraviolet disinfection system at the Millidgeville Wastewater Treatment Facility and incorporating additional flood protection measures in the Lower Cove sewer system.

“The impacts of climate change are felt by communities across Canada and Saint John, as a coastal community, is no exception,” Saint John Deputy Mayor John MacKenzie said in a government news release. “Making smart investments in critical infrastructure will help strengthen our resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change and major weather events. Thanks to funding from Infrastructure Canada, the City can now proceed with key disaster mitigation projects at the Courtenay Bay Causeway, two wastewater treatment facilities and the Lower Cove sewer system.”