[MonctonRad]

Sussex has all the advantages - potash, natural gas, surrounding agricultural land, beautiful natural setting and a central location between all three big southern NB cities.

I can foresee Sussex one day becoming the fourth largest city in the province. :tup:

[JHikka]

Sussex has all the advantages - potash, natural gas, surrounding agricultural land, beautiful natural setting and a central location between all three big southern NB cities.

I can foresee Sussex one day becoming the fourth largest city in the province. :tup:

Even more reason for them to build a massive international airport to service NB. ;) :haha:

It will be interesting to see what the Census brings next year. I'm sure there will be a shakeup.

[mylesmalley]

Where'd you get your numbers from, Greg?

Statcan 2006 community profiles say:
Moncton (CMA) - 126,424 (includes Dieppe and Riverview)
Saint John (CMA) - 122,389 (includes Quispamsis, Rothesay and GW)
Fredericton (CA) - 85,688 (includes Lincoln, New Maryland and Oromocto)
Bathurst (CA) - 31,424
Miramichi (CA) - 24,737
Edmonston (CA) - 21,442
Campbellton (CA) - 14,826

Sussex + Sussex Corder - 5,654
Shediac - 5,497
Sackville - 5,411
Woodstock - 5,113
Tracadie - 4,474
Beresford - 4,264
Caraquet - 4,156
Hampton - 4,004
...and so on.


At any rate, if Sussex and SC merged (and honestly, why the hell are they still separate towns?), they would indeed be the biggest town in the province not in a CA or CMA. However in terms of municipalities, they'd be behind Quispamsis, Rothesay, Oromocto, and Riverview.

If Sussex continues to grow, it'd take a while, but eventually they could creep up to Campbellton. I guess in their case, it doesn't help that all the cities in the province are shrinking except Moncton, SJ and Freddy.

[JHikka]

Personally i'd love to see Sussex become a major centre with a larger population. It would be a small part of the infill between the three larger cities. :tup:

------

Back to Saint John!

I took these two photos today. The first shows renovated apartment buildings on Adelaide Street (the middle two) between Victoria and Newman Streets. These two were real dives beforehand, and it's nice to see some money being put towards them. A lot of the properties on Adelaide have been cleaned and fixed in the past few months. At the other end of Adelaide (near Millidge Ave) there seems to be a lot of Chinese activity, either building new properties or renting out of existing ones. Will be interesting to see how this plays out in the next few years.

The second photo shows an expansion made to the Sisters (I forget the name!) Complex in Mount Pleasant off of Burpee Avenue. This is next to Rocmaura.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6493693023_d2183dd1b5_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6493698009_1f5784d716_b.jpg

[cl812]

Where'd you get your numbers from, Greg?

Statcan 2006 community profiles say:
Moncton (CMA) - 126,424 (includes Dieppe and Riverview)
Saint John (CMA) - 122,389 (includes Quispamsis, Rothesay and GW)
Fredericton (CA) - 85,688 (includes Lincoln, New Maryland and Oromocto)
Bathurst (CA) - 31,424
Miramichi (CA) - 24,737
Edmonston (CA) - 21,442
Campbellton (CA) - 14,826

Sussex + Sussex Corder - 5,654
Shediac - 5,497
Sackville - 5,411
Woodstock - 5,113
Tracadie - 4,474
Beresford - 4,264
Caraquet - 4,156
Hampton - 4,004
...and so on.


At any rate, if Sussex and SC merged (and honestly, why the hell are they still separate towns?), they would indeed be the biggest town in the province not in a CA or CMA. However in terms of municipalities, they'd be behind Quispamsis, Rothesay, Oromocto, and Riverview.

If Sussex continues to grow, it'd take a while, but eventually they could creep up to Campbellton. I guess in their case, it doesn't help that all the cities in the province are shrinking except Moncton, SJ and Freddy.

Just for clarification, the Oromocto area (Oromocto/Burton) isn't actually included in the Frederciton CA pop. That was the reason a while back that the city looked at expanding the boundaries out to Oromocto town limits.

[MonctonRad]

Just for clarification, the Oromocto area (Oromocto/Burton) isn't actually included in the Frederciton CA pop. That was the reason a while back that the city looked at expanding the boundaries out to Oromocto town limits.

Just like the Moncton CMA doesn't Include Shediac. I mean, WTF, it's only 15 minutes away at most!

:koko:

[cl812]

Just like the Moncton CMA doesn't Include Shediac. I mean, WTF, it's only 15 minutes away at most!

:koko:

Yeah, doent really make any sense.

[mylesmalley]

Actually, the Moncton CMA is particularly weird when you consider that it doesn't include Shediac (or Scoudouc), but at it's farthest extent is actually less thank 10km away from the furthest east extent of the Saint John CMA.

[MonctonRad]

Actually, the Moncton CMA is particularly weird when you consider that it doesn't include Shediac (or Scoudouc), but at it's farthest extent is actually less thank 10km away from the furthest east extent of the Saint John CMA.

That's only because both CMA's include a lot of virtually uninhabited territory in rural Saint John and Albert Counties. There are important regional towns and villages in the orbit of both cities that are not included.

It's very strange how the boundaries are drawn, but I suppose it is no diferent than HRM, which is larger than PEI and extends two hours eastward to border the wilds of neighbouring Guysborough County. :koko:

[PersonPlaceorThing]

If what I heard was correct, it's a Chinese company. Along with all of the potash development in Sussex, all of it gets shipped out through the Port in Saint John. This would be a large boost to the Southern New Brunswick economy, both in Sussex and in Saint John. :tup:

Great news. I wonder if there are any opportunities to "value add" to potash. Where does the raw material get converted into useable fertilizer?

[PersonPlaceorThing]

The first shows renovated apartment buildings on Adelaide Street (the middle two) between Victoria and Newman Streets. These two were real dives beforehand, and it's nice to see some money being put towards them. A lot of the properties on Adelaide have been cleaned and fixed in the past few months.

About a block from here on Adelaide there is another old building (peaked roof) that was pretty rough being revitalized. It's great to see.

[JHikka]

About a block from here on Adelaide there is another old building (peaked roof) that was pretty rough being revitalized. It's great to see.

It really is great to see. Adelaide is always a busy street, as it is a thoroughfare for the North End. So it's good to have more properties being renovated.

I'll get more photos up once I find the time. :tup:

[JHikka]

Atlantic Potash Corp. awarded new mining deal

"Atlantic Potash Corp. has signed a two-year agreement to explore the Millstream potash deposit and explore other development opportunities in New Brunswick.

Premier David Alward and Natural Resources Minister Bruce Northrup made the mining announcement on Monday. The agreement comes after the provincial government embarked on an eight-month process to find a potential developer.

Attoe said the financing for the proposal is coming from China. One of the key investors is Guocai Liu, of Beijing, whose company Migao International operates seven potash processing facilities.

If the Millstream mine goes ahed, the Chinese financial investment could jump to more than $4 billion, said Attoe.

About half of the potash may be exported to China, he said."


http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2011/12/09/nb-potash-contract-millstream.html

:tup:

[cdnguys]

Anyone know any more about this SJ based Atlantic Potash Co? Their website is www.atlanticpotash.ca
Unable to tell where they are located

[Ire Narissis]

When I was driving up the hill to Simms Corner this morning, I saw what looked like some surveying equipment set up... any news on the Simms Corner rebuild project?

[sjuser23]

When I was driving up the hill to Simms Corner this morning, I saw what looked like some surveying equipment set up... any news on the Simms Corner rebuild project?

I think this project is still a couple of years away. I think the city first wants to do the work to the reversing falls bridge to support a new water main from east to west before they do anything with Sims corner. They also need the involvement of the province as this is a provincial road. I can't see any of that happening while work on the Harbour Bridge will be going on next summer.

[JHikka]

The front stairs of the NB Museum on Douglas avenue have been removed and it seems as though new ones are nearly ready to be installed. There's also work on the back side of the museum being done.

[philster]

Update on the Construction at the corner of McAllister & Westmorland:
Sign by the New Bank of Montreal Building saying "Opening January 30th"

They also have the sign up for St Hubert. "St Hubert Express" not sure exactly what that means.

Also, anyone hear about a St Hubert and Starbucks being built in Rothesay?

[michael_d40]

Update on the Construction at the corner of McAllister & Westmorland:
Sign by the New Bank of Montreal Building saying "Opening January 30th"

They also have the sign up for St Hubert. "St Hubert Express" not sure exactly what that means.

St-Hubert Express offers a pared-down selection of the items available at our traditional restaurants to ensure quick service. Simply order and pay directly at the counter and your meal is ready in no time. Plus, you have full access to a refill station for soft drinks, coffee and our classic St-Hubert BBQ sauce.

Our newest St-Hubert Express locations serve washable, reusable dishes and utensils. The disposable place settings used at our other Express restaurants are made from a blend of sugar cane fibres and bamboo, both of which are renewable and biodegradable.

Also, anyone hear about a St Hubert and Starbucks being built in Rothesay?

Yes to both.

[mmmatt]

Actually, the Moncton CMA is particularly weird when you consider that it doesn't include Shediac (or Scoudouc), but at it's farthest extent is actually less thank 10km away from the furthest east extent of the Saint John CMA.

Yeah its very odd...if you lobbed off that block and moved it to the east to cover scoudouc and Shediac the CMA population would jump by 10,000 overnight but would still be the exact same size! Ive herad Shediac is not included because it is a center in its own right separate from Moncton and not enough people commute from there to Moncton for work...I dont agree. Everyone I know in Shediac commutes to Moncton for work! there are 6000 people there and MAYBE 2000 jobs...90% at the pension center and 10% at McDonalds and DQ haha.

Where I work (near the old airport) we have 40 employees and 5 live in Shediac. I live in downtown Moncton and it takes me the same amount of time to get to work as them!!

As time passes and developments on both ends serve to connect the two communities further maybe we will see it included someday.

[mylesmalley]

I know it's entirely anecdotal, but I work with three people who commute in from Fredericton every morning, one guy from Oxford, NS, one from Port Elgin, and a couple from Bouctouche. Those are some long commutes for the east coast!

[JHikka]

Saint John has people commute in from Hampton and St. Martins daily. I know of a couple that commute from the Fredericton area, but personally think they're crazy. :haha:

[RR Drummer]

Saint John has people commute in from Hampton and St. Martins daily. I know of a couple that commute from the Fredericton area, but personally think they're crazy. :haha:

Agreed. I can't stand more than 10 mins drive to work. That's why I refuse to entertain my wife's thought of moving to the "burbs" aka..."the valley'. I enjoy being a 10 min walk to McAllister Place and East side shopping plus 5-10min drive and I'm Uptown or Buses running every 10mins all around me.

BTW...love the St. Hubert Express idea. Can't wait to try it out. Rumour is also spreading of an Olive Garden up the hill beside Carquest??? Anyone heard anything about that?

[dhottawa729]

Saint John has people commute in from Hampton and St. Martins daily. I know of a couple that commute from the Fredericton area, but personally think they're crazy. :haha:

When I lived in NB, I used to think people were crazy for living in Fredericton and working in Saint John, but now that I have left the bubble, I've realized that a huge chunk of the population does a 30-60 minute commute twice a day to and from the suburbs (and beyond). The difference is that it is stop-and-go the entire way and very frantic. Those people that were used to that who now live in NB probably love the 1-hour commute cruising at 120km/h with relatively no traffic.

[JHikka]

When I lived in NB, I used to think people were crazy for living in Fredericton and working in Saint John, but now that I have left the bubble, I've realized that a huge chunk of the population does a 30-60 minute commute twice a day to and from the suburbs (and beyond). The difference is that it is stop-and-go the entire way and very frantic. Those people that were used to that who now live in NB probably love the 1-hour commute cruising at 120km/h with relatively no traffic.

That's very true. When I was in Mississauga in October I drove into Toronto and Brampton a few times, and although it's a good twenty minute drive with moderate traffic it doesn't seem that bad. When the traffic is bad, though, it gets really tedious. Even now, the traffic between Saint John and the valley at peak hours is pretty intensive for the Maritimes, and I wouldn't be able to personally stand it. Grand Bay doesn't seem to be as bad. It (the valley) seems comparable to the traffic along the Bedford Highway in Halifax at rush hour.

Aside from that though, in Mississauga there are other means of travel. You can easily jump on a Go Train and be in Downtown Toronto in 15 minutes. If there were trains between the city and the suburbs here I could see living out there being somewhat feasible, but I guess that destroys part of the suburban dream. :tup:

This kind of ties into what I was talking about re: the difference between driving on a highway surrounded by trees and surrounded by things to look at or do on the side of the highway. Generally Highway 1 east from Saint John is busy-ish until the Quispamsis/Nauwigewauk exit. The drive up until then seems short and at least a bit easier because there are things to see rather than just staring off at thousands of identical trees, as the rest of the drive on Highway 1 is (except for parts at Hampton, Sussex and Petitcodiac). The 401 from Oshawa heading west to Toronto is a good hour drive, but it doesn't feel like an hour because you're constantly driving by buildings and businesses, and it seems a lot busier and active. I'm not really sure what i'm on about at this point. :haha:

[mylesmalley]

Over four years at UNB and coming home to Moncton, I've gradually reached the point where I recognize distinctive trees and cell towers.

[JHikka]

Over four years at UNB and coming home to Moncton, I've gradually reached the point where I recognize distinctive trees and cell towers.

As a resident of Saint John I can tell you i've never once driven the TCH between Fredericton and Moncton. I know plenty of other people here who haven't either. I'm sure you Moncton folk are saved from having to drive Highway 7. :yuck:

[mylesmalley]

I actually don't find Hwy 7 all that bad. Call me crazy...

[mmmatt]

i've never once driven the TCH between Fredericton and Moncton.

You aren't missing much haha...its most likely the safest highway in NB...but on the other hand that also means its the most boring! :P

In other news Merry Christmas to all in beautiful Saint John! :cheers:

[pjleger]

Update on the Construction at the corner of McAllister & Westmorland:
Sign by the New Bank of Montreal Building saying "Opening January 30th"

They also have the sign up for St Hubert. "St Hubert Express" not sure exactly what that means.

Also, anyone hear about a St Hubert and Starbucks being built in Rothesay?

http://www.st-hubert.com/entreprise/sthubert-concept/st-hubert-express.en.html

That should have some answers to what a St Hubert Express is.

Same great taste...just a different way of serving their customers. It's basically order at the counter, and bring it to your seat yourself.

[JHikka]

Photo Update!

All photos by me from today, December 27th, 2011


New building on Second Street. No information on this whatsoever.
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7163/6582479535_cfb4ea18a9_b.jpg

Expansion at NBCC. You can see the size of it in comparison to Grandview Avenue
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7023/6582483117_2f90343628_b.jpg
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6582484893_b7fec9525a_b.jpg

New developments at Westmorland & McAllister
Bank of Montreal
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6582487717_aaac89f307_b.jpg
St. Hubert Express
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6582492131_b8ab675778_b.jpg

And the new Tims on Bayside Drive
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6582496591_72f61b0bf5_b.jpg

:tup:

[JHikka]

Unconfirmed Rumour of the Day:

Costco in Saint John is interested in the idea of installing gaspumps at their location, similar to what the Costco in Fredericton has done. There are some pretty obvious assumptions as to why the Saint John location did not built pumps when they built the store. If this were to be true i'm assuming that the prices of gas in both Fredericton and Saint John would be somewhat similar to each other.

As a comparison, gas prices today in Fredericton range anywhere from 113.9 to 117.9, whereas prices in Saint John are at 119.2. Moncton is 119.6.

[philster]

Thank you for the Photo updates Greg.
I have also heard the same rumors about Costco Gas Bars and someone had told me a few months back they were speaking with Costco Management here in SJ and they were recently (3 months ago) told they had the go-ahead by corporate to have a gas bar. So if anyone is in the store, see if you can strike up a convo with the manager. I guess the store manager has mentioned that it's been a hot topic with them ever since Fredericton opened up with a gas bar.

[Whaler]

Anyone know what the new building on City Road is?

[JHikka]

Anyone know what the new building on City Road is?

The new building on City Road is a new service centre for ambulances. Currently they're operating out of a industrial park on the east side. Interestingly, ambulance drivers used to sit and wait for calls at Hotel Courtney Bay because of it's central locations in the city. So, their service centre is being located centrally on City Road.

Just a shame the Police didn't take the same advice.

[philster]

I was driving by City Road today and was wondering what was that building going up, makes perfect sense!

Also Noticed that the new Leons Building is taking good shape on Rothesay Ave and looks like it should be ready soon, I'm going to assume they will be demolishing the current store upon completion to make a larger and better parking lot?

[flwright]

I was driving by City Road today and was wondering what was that building going up, makes perfect sense!

Also Noticed that the new Leons Building is taking good shape on Rothesay Ave and looks like it should be ready soon, I'm going to assume they will be demolishing the current store upon completion to make a larger and better parking lot?

The Leon's building is actually being built in 2 stages -- once the current new construction is complete, they will move in to continue operations, tear down the old building, and construct the remaining half of the building on the site of the old building. They are literally doubling the size of the store.

[philster]

Good to know, that sure is gonna be one massive well needed building, is it their plan to pretty much combine their warehouse, current store, and also their clearance center further downt he road, into one facility?

[Justin6463]

The new building on City Road is a new service centre for ambulances. Currently they're operating out of a industrial park on the east side. Interestingly, ambulance drivers used to sit and wait for calls at Hotel Courtney Bay because of it's central locations in the city. So, their service centre is being located centrally on City Road.

Just a shame the Police didn't take the same advice.

Just FYI, we really dislike being called that. :previous: Comparable to calling the fire truck drivers to come over and watch your house burn down or the police car drivers to stop by when youre being robbed.

;)

[JHikka]

Just FYI, we really dislike being called that. :previous: Comparable to calling the fire truck drivers to come over and watch your house burn down or the police car drivers to stop by when youre being robbed.

;)

What would you prefer to be called? Paramedics? :cheers:

[MonctonRad]

What would you prefer to be called? Paramedics? :cheers:

Indeed I'm sure that is what they would prefer (or perhaps EMT's). :)

I feel for the paramedics of the world. They provide a vital service, frequently under quite adverse (even dangerous) situations and they have a skill set that often means more in terms of patient survival than anyone else in the health care team, yet they make literally tens of thousands of dollars less in a year than most nurses.

This unfortunate paradigm is a holdover from the days when "ambulance drivers" were just glorified chauffeurs who provided a "scoop and run" service, transporting patients as quickly as possible to the ER before the work of life saving actually started. Nowadays, the patient is stabilized in the field and life saving procedures continue during transport with the EMT in continuous communication with the ERP at the hospital.

Patients now arrive at the ER in much better shape than they used to, often extending the "golden hour" and much improving the critical outcomes.

EMT recognition and compensation has to improve. As a fellow healthcare professional i appreciate their efforts immensely. :tup:

[Justin6463]

Paramedic is indeed preferred Greg :) We have more training and a larger skill set than EMT's and have a bigger window for clinical thinking in the field. But were getting into semantics here and I'm greatful for the appreciation. :cheers:

[Southpaw78]

Some thought provoking articles in the Telegraph this week on Saint John's uptown density and the lessening poverty rate.

http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/1468497

http://telegraphjournal.canadaeast.com/city/article/1468284

[ErickMontreal]

Farren pushes city to fund upgrades to convention centre

Rick Mantle - News Staff Jan 04, 2012 13:27:59 PM

SAINT JOHN - Common Councillor Bill Farren does not want to see the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre negleted any longer.

Farren put forth a motion at last night's council meeting, looking for funding for convention centre upgrades.

Farren wants the city to agree to finance improvements to the centre, if the federal and provincial governments agree to cost-share their portions of the funding over a two-to-four-year period.

Farren says the city has had hockey rinks fall down because they were ignored, and says he does not want to see that happen to the Trade and Convention Centre.

Councillor Peter Maguire agrees it needs repairs but says the city's top priority is clean drinking water.

The matter was referred to the city's budget deliberations.


Mayor looks to major jobs announcement in 2012

News staff Alison Morash Jan 03, 2012 05:41:13 AM
SAINT JOHN, N.B.- Saint John's Mayor is very optimistic about the new year.

If you asked him, Mayor Ivan Court would be one of the first to say that 2011 was a roller coaster year.

Saint John triumphed at the Memorial Cup but was also plagued with a pension crisis.

That aside, Mayor Court says he looks forward to 2012 and a major announcement within the next three months that will create jobs in the city. "We compare it to the project that's happening in Halifax", says Court. " It's one that's high paying jobs and will be good news for the citizens of Saint John

The first Common Council meeting of the year will take place tonight at 5:45 at City Hall.


Saint John road toll idea earns mixed reviews


CBC News
Posted: Jan 5, 2012 7:10 AM AT
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2012 10:07 AM AT

Coun. Gary Sullivan said a commuter tax could encourage more people to use public transit and discourage people from moving out of Saint John. (CBC)Coun. Gary Sullivan said a commuter tax could encourage more people to use public transit and discourage people from moving out of Saint John. (CBC)

A Saint John councillor’s proposal to impose a road toll for commuters is getting a rough ride from politicians and drivers from outside the city.

Coun. Donnie Snook raised the idea of the commuter toll on Tuesday saying it would raise much-needed revenue for the city and could help offset cuts to services, such as public transit.

The idea isn't original as many cities have toll highways.

New York tried to introduce a toll on commuters, but the so-called congestion tax was struck down by the state legislature.

John Petro, a policy analyst with the Drum Major Institute for Public Policy in New York, said he believes the tolls would have been a good thing for New York and its underfunded transit system.

"[The tolls would] raise revenue, help reduce congestion and that would make travel speeds for those that absolutely have to drive actually much quicker,” Petro said.

Petro said opponents labelled the $8 toll an attack on working people from the outside boroughs and that killed it in the minds of state politicians.
Mixed reviews

So far, Snook's idea of a congestion tax has received mixed reviews.

The idea has been endorsed by some of his council colleagues, including Coun. Gary Sullivan, who said the policy could encourage more people to use public transit and discourage people from moving outside of the city.

"I'm a firm believer that if you use it, you should be paying for it," Sullivan said.

However, the reaction from people living outside the city has been negative. Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop called the proposal “ludicrous”.

Doreen MacDonald, a Quispamsis resident, said she thinks the toll idea is a bad one.

"People who work here already buy their lunch, they buy their groceries, they buy their clothing,” MacDonald said.

Saint John politicians have been critical in the past of paying for services that are being used by people who don't live in the city.

The city is also facing a tough financial situation. Saint John has a pension deficit that is estimated at $163 million.

The city’s financial troubles are forcing Saint John politicians to discuss raising taxes or cutting services.

[pjleger]

Anyone know when the St. Hubert Express is scheduled to be opened? And who the franchisee is? Anyone hear anymore about the St. Hubert in Rothesay?

[mylesmalley]

Quite the teaser from the mayor. Any thoughts on what it could be?

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Quite the teaser from the mayor. Any thoughts on what it could be?

I have no idea, but I've heard rumors that the 2nd refinery may be about to restart? If that's the case, then expect a real estate boom in the city, at least that's what I'm hoping? It could also be one of those rumored chemical plants, or Irving's electric power generating station, but what ever it is, I can't wait to find out!

[JHikka]

Quite the teaser from the mayor. Any thoughts on what it could be?

I'm under the assumption that it's the new Billion-dollar Chinese investment in Sussex which utilizes the Port in Saint John. I'd be very surprised if it was a 2nd refinery.

We're also speaking about things that Mayor Court says, so bring out the grains of salt. :haha:

[sjuser23]

Telegraph Journal, Jan 6, 2011, artiucle by Sandra Davis

Developers making room for more retail at East Point

Growth Better-than-expected Christmas sales make east side complex's retailers optimistic



SANDRA DAviS

TELEGRAPH-JOURNAL

SAINT JOHN - The East Point shopping complex is poised to nearly double in size as the remaining rock is blasted away to make room for more retail, service providers, and hospitality venues.

With more than 37,161 square metres (400,000 square feet) of shopping available now, the east side development will encompass more than 65,000 square metres (700,000 square feet) when all is said and done, says developer Troy Northrup.

"Our goal was to develop a New Brunswick premiere shopping destination, to be different than what's been built in the province, and I think we've certainly established that,"he said.

"When completed, it will be the largest shopping centre in New Brunswick." Furthermore, sales this Christmas surpassed what was expected.

"It's early for all the numbers to come in, but I have talked to a few key retailers, and the sales well exceeded forecasts,"he said.

Along with Tweed and Hickory, last fall East Point welcomed Pseudio, Tip Top Tailors, Mr. Big & Tall and TD, along with Sally Beauty, which Northrup describes as the largest cosmetics company in the world. That's in addition to at least 15 other established retailers and serviceproviders, including Costco and Home Depot.

In addition to the East Point complex, the east side is getting a new development at the intersection of McAllister Drive and Westmorland Road, which will include BMO Bank of Montreal and St-Hubert, which specializes in rotisserie chicken. A sign at the site says the bank will open Jan. 30.

The developer of that two-and-a-halfhectare tract of land is Cobalt Properties, said senior city planner Mark Reade, adding that there is room for a third building between the bank and St-Hubert.

A Target store is expected to open in Mc-Allister Place mall in 2013, which will be the American retailer's only New Brunswick store in a 105-location Canadian expansion. Lancaster Mall has spent $14 million in renovations, and Brunswick Square is set to complete a facelift in the spring.

The city centre is also booming with newcomers, including The Freak Lunchbox, The Urban Shoe Myth, Danielle's Desserts Cake Shop and Bakery, Je Suis Prest Boutique and Silver Daisy Designs.

"It tells me that 2011 was a good year from a retail perspective," said Board of Trade president Imelda Gilman.

"We've seen a lot of growth in the last couple of years all over the city."

[Taeolas]

I think someone's working off of outdated information with respect to Target; Target has announced that at least one store in Moncton and the Uptown Centre Zellers in Freddy will become Targets as well; though I can't recall off hand now if they'll be turned over in 2013 or not. (Considering the Freddy's store's sign shorted out around Christmas, they may start the Freddy renos sooner than later. :) )

[nwalbert]

I think someone's working off of outdated information with respect to Target; Target has announced that at least one store in Moncton and the Uptown Centre Zellers in Freddy will become Targets as well; though I can't recall off hand now if they'll be turned over in 2013 or not. (Considering the Freddy's store's sign shorted out around Christmas, they may start the Freddy renos sooner than later. :) )

Other NB cities will see Target stores open, but Saint John will be the first market they enter in NB, hence when it opens it will be the only NB Target.

[nwalbert]

I'm under the assumption that it's the new Billion-dollar Chinese investment in Sussex which utilizes the Port in Saint John. I'd be very surprised if it was a 2nd refinery.

We're also speaking about things that Mayor Court says, so bring out the grains of salt. :haha:


Hard to disagree with your thoughts around the Mayor. :)

That being said, this is a pretty bold and specific statement to make. The only thing that would be on the same scale as the Halifax project would be a second refinery. Although I continue to hear very strong rumors around this, I fail to see a situation where Mayor Court would have any inside information on an Irving project.

As you suggest, this more than likely has something to do wit the port. Either way, even if its a half truth, this is clearly tremendous news for the city.

I can tell you that uptown property values are very high right now despite a weak real estate market across the city. Investment properties are going for top dollar right now so it would not shock me if something significant was afoot.

[Taeolas]

Other NB cities will see Target stores open, but Saint John will be the first market they enter in NB, hence when it opens it will be the only NB Target.

We'll know within a few months I'm sure; but as far as I know, Saint John was the first ANNOUNCED Target store; followed soon after by the announcement for the Freddy and Moncton stores purchased in the second wave of lease purchases. But there's been no word yet on the order the stores will be changed over, or if they will try to do a simulatenous change over or anything that I can find through some quick googling.

[nwalbert]

SANDRA DAviS

TELEGRAPH-JOURNAL

SAINT JOHN - The East Point shopping complex is poised to nearly double in size as the remaining rock is blasted away to make room for more retail, service providers, and hospitality venues.

With more than 37,161 square metres (400,000 square feet) of shopping available now, the east side development will encompass more than 65,000 square metres (700,000 square feet) when all is said and done, says developer Troy Northrup.

"Our goal was to develop a New Brunswick premiere shopping destination, to be different than what's been built in the province, and I think we've certainly established that,"he said.

"When completed, it will be the largest shopping centre in New Brunswick." Furthermore, sales this Christmas surpassed what was expected.

"It's early for all the numbers to come in, but I have talked to a few key retailers, and the sales well exceeded forecasts,"he said.

Along with Tweed and Hickory, last fall East Point welcomed Pseudio, Tip Top Tailors, Mr. Big & Tall and TD, along with Sally Beauty, which Northrup describes as the largest cosmetics company in the world. That's in addition to at least 15 other established retailers and serviceproviders, including Costco and Home Depot.

In addition to the East Point complex, the east side is getting a new development at the intersection of McAllister Drive and Westmorland Road, which will include BMO Bank of Montreal and St-Hubert, which specializes in rotisserie chicken. A sign at the site says the bank will open Jan. 30.

The developer of that two-and-a-halfhectare tract of land is Cobalt Properties, said senior city planner Mark Reade, adding that there is room for a third building between the bank and St-Hubert.

A Target store is expected to open in Mc-Allister Place mall in 2013, which will be the American retailer's only New Brunswick store in a 105-location Canadian expansion. Lancaster Mall has spent $14 million in renovations, and Brunswick Square is set to complete a facelift in the spring.

The city centre is also booming with newcomers, including The Freak Lunchbox, The Urban Shoe Myth, Danielle's Desserts Cake Shop and Bakery, Je Suis Prest Boutique and Silver Daisy Designs.

"It tells me that 2011 was a good year from a retail perspective," said Board of Trade president Imelda Gilman.

"We've seen a lot of growth in the last couple of years all over the city."


Clearly great to see East Point continuing to be successful but to me the boom of new uptown retailers is the more significant news here.

Saint John has a downtown core that other cities would die for and we are finally starting to capitalize on that. After a few decades of ho-hum attitudes, the new generation is really taking action in this city. All of the new uptown retailers are under 40 years of age.

Exciting times!

[philster]

Thank you for Posting the Entire Articles from the Telegraph, I went to Read the Greater Saint John City Section online today and was redirected to a link to Sign up page where I have to pay :(

I usually read the paper @ Work, however being off on holidays it was nice to read that section online.

[mylesmalley]

I'd be careful about posting full articles. If BN is so keen to restrict access, we wouldn't want Skyscraper Page to get in any trouble.

[RR Drummer]

I'm under the assumption that it's the new Billion-dollar Chinese investment in Sussex which utilizes the Port in Saint John. I'd be very surprised if it was a 2nd refinery.

We're also speaking about things that Mayor Court says, so bring out the grains of salt. :haha:

Lots of good comments. I would agree that a 2nd refinery would be the news many would wish for including myself, however the likelihood is slim. I would love to be wrong about that since we know that a 2nd refinery is on most everyones wishlist. I would expect it to be something to do with the Port of Saint John. I will stay tuned in the months to come.

Concerning the retail developments and success it is so good to hear of how far we've come in the last 10 years. Uptown is simply nothing short of fantastic with a great vibe and energy never seen before in Uptown Saint John. The East side of Saint John has proven to be the epicenter of retail development. East Point stands as a tremendous monument of what can be done with the right plan. And as mentioned there is still plenty of room left to further expand on what if currently offered. A nice upgrade to McAllister Place makes it look fresh and current. I expect more additions and expansions like the Corner of Westmorland/McAllister in the future. The Target store will be much anticipated and watched by other retailers. I can only dream of an Ikea and Super Walmart.....

As for a road tax/toll, can't see it happenning. I won't say I agree or disagree. As a city resident living in the East Side it would not impact me. I do know that I would not want to be working for the City of Saint John. With the whole pension deficit fiasco, they must come up with ways to make or save money. A tough order to follow. There has been many a wrong decision made over the years in regards to our City's finances/developments but lets not focus on the bad, let's instead praise up the good things, talk about what is working, and through a process of brainstorming and planning, develop ways we can improve Saint John's bottom line and make it even more attractive for residents, visitors, and investors alike.

Remember when a glass that is at half.......it's up to you to decide if you view it as half full or half empty, or just half.

[JHikka]

Rumour of the day is that the last day or operation for the Aquarius is going to be someday in February and then they will be closing down. I was under the impression that Wal-Mart had bought the Co-Op property and were looking into the adjoining Aquarius property before they decided on moving into the Zellers location at Lancaster Mall. If that is the case then why is the Aquarius closing if Wal-Mart isn't moving onto the property anymore? Who could be looking into that location on Fairville Boluevard?

Along with this, the corner lot next to the new Lawtons on the corner of Fairville and Catherwood (which has been empty since the Lawtons replaced the old Sobeys) is apparently being looked at by a prospective restaurant. Whether this is fast food or an actual restaurant i'm unsure. Along with this, the Blockbuster location at Lancaster Mall is currently sitting empty, so it will be interesting to see what happens with that.

[nwalbert]

Rumour of the day is that the last day or operation for the Aquarius is going to be someday in February and then they will be closing down. I was under the impression that Wal-Mart had bought the Co-Op property and were looking into the adjoining Aquarius property before they decided on moving into the Zellers location at Lancaster Mall. If that is the case then why is the Aquarius closing if Wal-Mart isn't moving onto the property anymore? Who could be looking into that location on Fairville Boluevard?

Along with this, the corner lot next to the new Lawtons on the corner of Fairville and Catherwood (which has been empty since the Lawtons replaced the old Sobeys) is apparently being looked at by a prospective restaurant. Whether this is fast food or an actual restaurant i'm unsure. Along with this, the Blockbuster location at Lancaster Mall is currently sitting empty, so it will be interesting to see what happens with that.

Aquarius is not a rumor, it is fact. The Aquarius, the old CarQuest lot, and the old Co-Cop Lot have all been sold. Something very significant is going in there retail wise.

Wal-Mart will open in the old Zellers building.

The lot near the Lawtons is fast food. They went through some citizen concerns on the drive-thru about six months back. Not sure which chain however.

I have heard nothing on the old Blockbuster building.

[michael_d40]

Aquarius is not a rumor, it is fact. The Aquarius, the old CarQuest lot, and the old Co-Cop Lot have all been sold. Something very significant is going in there retail wise.

Wal-Mart will open in the old Zellers building.

The lot near the Lawtons is fast food. They went through some citizen concerns on the drive-thru about six months back. Not sure which chain however.

I have heard nothing on the old Blockbuster building.


http://www.counselcorp.com/components/com_propertylist/propertyPDFs/52912a7c1fc77b75bc23e170ebae92f9.pdf

Another Boston Pizza.

[JHikka]

Another Boston Pizza.

Good news. I'd prefer that over a fast food restaurant similar to McDonald's or Burger King. This also continue their trend of duplicating what is already over East. All the west side needs now is their movie theatre and they're set. :tup:

I've noticed in those plans that they want to have an outdoor patio facing the Catherwood/Fairville intersection. That's interesting.

[michael_d40]

I've noticed in those plans that they want to have an outdoor patio facing the Catherwood/Fairville intersection. That's interesting.

Don't they all have outdoor patios?

[thefishingnut]

I'm under the assumption that it's the new Billion-dollar Chinese investment in Sussex which utilizes the Port in Saint John. I'd be very surprised if it was a 2nd refinery.

We're also speaking about things that Mayor Court says, so bring out the grains of salt. :haha:

That would be incredibly disappointing if that is what he is talking about. Comparing a $25 billion shipbuilding contract within the city with mine development 70 kms away? Even for a politician, that comparison to me is just too much of a stretch. I'll throw out another option for complete speculation, a second reactor.

[mylesmalley]

Unless the province found a couple of spare billions under the couch cushions at the Legislator, I can't see a new reactor happening any time soon.

That, and combined with shale gas, 'omg radiation!!!' would probably put this place over the edge.

[thefishingnut]

Well, if there is a business case to export power then there can be options for development besides 100% public money. And if they've actually finally stopped trying to twin or triple every road in the province then they might be able to swing something.

[JHikka]

Don't they all have outdoor patios?

Most do, but sitting on a patio next to a busy, noisy intersection doesn't seem like a place where i'd like to eat. Perhaps others feel differently.

That would be incredibly disappointing if that is what he is talking about. Comparing a $25 billion shipbuilding contract within the city with mine development 70 kms away? Even for a politician, that comparison to me is just too much of a stretch. I'll throw out another option for complete speculation, a second reactor.

I can't remember the exact details I heard a few months back, but if the initial investment is successful then this Chinese company would be willing to invest somewhere in the neighbourhood of $5Billion (my number could be wrong, i'm running with old memory). Even if all the jobs and work is done in Sussex, it's 1)Still supporting the local economy and 2)All going through the Port in Saint John.

As an aside, I think it would be a bit of a stretch to call Mayor Court a politician. I'm sure I, along with a lot of other people, could say some nasty things, but this is neither the time nor the place for such a discussion. ;) Professional politicians are at the Provincial and Federal levels. You get a different level of professionalism at the municipal level.

Unless the province found a couple of spare billions under the couch cushions at the Legislator, I can't see a new reactor happening any time soon.

That, and combined with shale gas, 'omg radiation!!!' would probably put this place over the edge.

They still have to finish the refurbishing, don't they? The whole thing's a mess.

[nwalbert]

They still have to finish the refurbishing, don't they? The whole thing's a mess.

Yes, the refurb is still in progress, however it is actually in the final stages and things are going well after some of the major setbacks that occurred.

I would be surprised to see the provincial government release plans for second reactor but who knows.

Agreed that this would be a stretch even for Mayor Court, I am optimistic there is in fact something substantial on the horizon. With the provincial and national economies mostly stagnant it would be great to see something announced locally.

[michael_d40]

Most do, but sitting on a patio next to a busy, noisy intersection doesn't seem like a place where i'd like to eat. Perhaps others feel differently.

You mean like the current patio facing Major Brook Drive? lol

[JHikka]

You mean like the current patio facing Major Brook Drive? lol

Not exactly scenic or tranquil, huh? :haha:

In terms of a second reactor at Lepreau: It would have been wise to build the second reactor before the refurbishment of the first so that you could have at least one operating continuously. Myles was correct in stating that there's little money from either the provincial or federal governments at the moment, so the possibility seems slim.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

That would be incredibly disappointing if that is what he is talking about. Comparing a $25 billion shipbuilding contract within the city with mine development 70 kms away? Even for a politician, that comparison to me is just too much of a stretch. I'll throw out another option for complete speculation, a second reactor.

I agree, because I remember that a French nuclear giant wanted to build one or more reactors, and that would be a good thing indeed! The Sussex potash is only a $1.5 billion dollar deal. It's big, but no where near as big as what Halifax is getting. Irving also wanted to build a liquid power generator and a massive wind farm, so that another possibility, but sadly, we are going to have to wait it out!

[JHikka]

The Sussex potash is only a $1.5 billion dollar deal. It's big, but no where near as big as what Halifax is getting.

Just out of curiosity: Why do we keep comparing ourselves to Halifax and the shipbuilding contract? I know Saint John used to be big-time, but we're punching above our weight if we're to believe that we can compete with a city/region that has 3x the population base. I'm all for Saint John being an economic leader, don't get me wrong, but when people start pooh-poohing $1.5 billion dollar investments because they're not as big as what other cities are getting it starts to become a bit questionable in regards to where our priorities lie. We should be happy that we can get whatever we can take at this point. Not trying to shoot you down; just generally interested in the whole mindset.

Has there been any word on tidal power lately? That whole thing seems to have fallen off the radar recently.

[SJTOKO]

Sorry to ruin the big surprise for everyone, but the "big surprise" is in fact related to the Potash deal in Sussex.

A large factory will be built in Saint John to process the potash (or something to that effect)....

Quite a few jobs will be created, and the port will see a lot of business.


That is all...

[thefishingnut]

Just out of curiosity: Why do we keep comparing ourselves to Halifax and the shipbuilding contract? I know Saint John used to be big-time, but we're punching above our weight if we're to believe that we can compete with a city/region that has 3x the population base. I'm all for Saint John being an economic leader, don't get me wrong, but when people start pooh-poohing $1.5 billion dollar investments because they're not as big as what other cities are getting it starts to become a bit questionable in regards to where our priorities lie. We should be happy that we can get whatever we can take at this point. Not trying to shoot you down; just generally interested in the whole mindset.

Has there been any word on tidal power lately? That whole thing seems to have fallen off the radar recently.

I agree, we're just commenting/speculating on a quote from the mayor who has decided to compare it to a $25 billion project:

"If you asked him, Mayor Ivan Court would be one of the first to say that 2011 was a roller coaster year.

Saint John triumphed at the Memorial Cup but was also plagued with a pension crisis.

That aside, Mayor Court says he looks forward to 2012 and a major announcement within the next three months that will create jobs in the city. "We compare it to the project that's happening in Halifax", says Court. " It's one that's high paying jobs and will be good news for the citizens of Saint John."

[philster]

Aquarius is not a rumor, it is fact. The Aquarius, the old CarQuest lot, and the old Co-Cop Lot have all been sold. Something very significant is going in there retail wise.

Wal-Mart will open in the old Zellers building.

The lot near the Lawtons is fast food. They went through some citizen concerns on the drive-thru about six months back. Not sure which chain however.

I have heard nothing on the old Blockbuster building.

However, I do find it interesting that the For Sale Sign on the Property of the old Co Op is still up, and the same with Car Quest, and I do believe seeing another vacent building beside Coast Tire also for Sale. I don't recall ever seeing the for sale sign being taken down off the old Co Op Site since they closed.

The only thing about the AQ is I do recall us discussing this last year around this time as well.

[cdnguys]

The potash processing plant - are the " high paying " jobs in the construction of it or the workers in it? How many long term jobs would it bring? Where would they build it? How do you know this is a fact???
Wonder if they will ask for a tax deal like Canaport

[JHikka]

Wonder if they will ask for a tax deal like Canaport

Depends. Who operates Canaport and who will be operating the potash processing plant? ;)

Essentially the potash is mined in Sussex, shipped to Saint John, processed in Saint John, loaded on ships at the Port of Saint John, and then sent to Brazil or where ever else. It will be interesting to see where the processing plant will end up, because that will determine taxation.

[cdnguys]

Depends. Who operates Canaport and who will be operating the potash processing plant? ;)

Essentially the potash is mined in Sussex, shipped to Saint John, processed in Saint John, loaded on ships at the Port of Saint John, and then sent to Brazil or where ever else. It will be interesting to see where the processing plant will end up, because that will determine taxation.

There was talk of the Saint John "region" to locate it. But if the mayor is excited one would think Saint John. Unless its right on port property, it would make sense to process it in Sussex and ship it by train just the once. The only ideal location I can think of as far as access to rail lines to their terminal would be behind Crown Street where the old cotton mill used to be - but who knows how big they are. I googled it and other new plants around the world range from $500 million to 1.5 Biliion to build. I,m just glad we are realizing that we should send out value added product rather than raw product so that jobs are created here and we benefit from our natural resources.

[JHikka]

I googled it and other new plants around the world range from $500 million to 1.5 Biliion to build. I,m just glad we are realizing that we should send out value added product rather than raw product so that jobs are created here and we benefit from our natural resources.

Completely agree.

Unless its right on port property

If you're referring to the Lantic Sugar Site I, along with PlanSJ, would have a stroke :haha:. It would make sense to have the plant in Sussex, I would think, but we'll have to wait and see.

Either way i'm all for Sussex exploding from this economic activity.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

I was talking to a professional welder this evenning, and he said that rumors coming from his union was that the refinery deal was indeed a real possibility, and that would make it at least
a $10 billion or more project, making it a mega-project like the Halifax shipyard contract. However, until we get more information on what in hell the mayor is talking about, rumors are just that...rumors!

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Just out of curiosity: Why do we keep comparing ourselves to Halifax and the shipbuilding contract? .

The reason is simple: The mayor compared it to Halifax, plain and simple!

[cdnguys]

I was talking to a professional welder this evenning, and he said that rumors coming from his union was that the refinery deal was indeed a real possibility, and that would make it at least
a $10 billion or more project, making it a mega-project like the Halifax shipyard contract. However, until we get more information on what in hell the mayor is talking about, rumors are just that...rumors!

The dream of a new refinery is dead. In fact, given the margins on Brent Sea Crude pricing refineries like Irving ( compared to $8 cheaper per barrel West Texas Intermediate purchasing refining competitors in USA ) we should be thankful the current refinery is even operating. We are naive to think it would never close down. Imperial refinery in Dartmouth will likely close and a slew of refineries closed recently in North America, including one in Montreal and Marcus Hook in the northeast USA. Besides credit is tighter now and I don't think anyone out there would finance $8 to $10 billion refineries when they are closing all over the world. From what I understand Irving laid off 20% of their workers and is contracting so that it can survive until this spread between WTI and Brent evens out again.

[JHikka]

The reason is simple: The mayor compared it to Halifax, plain and simple!

Who? The guy who won't be mayor come May?

[SJTOKO]

There was talk of the Saint John "region" to locate it. But if the mayor is excited one would think Saint John. Unless its right on port property, it would make sense to process it in Sussex and ship it by train just the once. The only ideal location I can think of as far as access to rail lines to their terminal would be behind Crown Street where the old cotton mill used to be - but who knows how big they are. I googled it and other new plants around the world range from $500 million to 1.5 Biliion to build. I,m just glad we are realizing that we should send out value added product rather than raw product so that jobs are created here and we benefit from our natural resources.


The plant will be built near Lorneville in the industrial park... The construction of a shipping terminal was started there a few years ago but was never completed.

It will be completed by the new company and the entire operation will be based there.

Cheers...

[cdnguys]

The plant will be built near Lorneville in the industrial park... The construction of a shipping terminal was started there a few years ago but was never completed.

It will be completed by the new company and the entire operation will be based there.

Cheers...

Will it process potash from the current mines, or only from the new deposits being explored? If current mine, wonder if they will fear down potash sheds in south end and close terminal?

[nwalbert]

In fact, given the margins on Brent Sea Crude p

Interesting theory but Brent Sea Crude is actually seeing very good profits these days.

Not sure where you heard that Irving laid off 20% but that is inaccurate. That would be all over the news.

The rumors of a second refinery are extremely strong within the financial world right now, it is interesting to hear that the unions are also hearing the same thing. Starting to look likely that something is being planned.

That combined with all the new port activity and we could see a boom at least on par with Halifax. That would be amazing for the region in general.

[DoyleRulez]

That, and combined with shale gas, 'omg radiation!!!' would probably put this place over the edge.

Shale gas is terrible for the environment. "Canadian" Nuclear power plants are arguably the greenest source of power in the world. Less damaging on the environment than the environmental alterations created by Hydro dams, and have a smaller carbon footprint than the production of windmills.

Radiation Propoganda is a pet peeve of mine, fear is derived from ignorance.

I agree, because I remember that a French nuclear giant wanted to build one or more reactors, and that would be a good thing indeed!

If Areva built in NB it would mark the first time a Light Water reactor was built in Canada (Fukashima anyone?) and the first time it wasn't built by Canadians with a Canadian technology (No chance of Chernobyl or Fukashima with Heavy water design). It would crush our single most successful Canadian technology sector of the last century. The entire industry would be infiltrated and the economy of another country would benefit.

Oh, but we voted Harper back into a majority party leader and he paid SNC-Lavalin 79 billion$ to take it all off our hands along with all the assets. Good Job Liberals!

The company is set to make billions in the coming years. And if they fail?...little known fact, but Harper ensured canadian tax payers are still on the hook for any losses incurred. Yay!

Point Lepreau was originally designed to be 2 reactors but conservative SJ voted against it. A bank of 2-4 additional reactors would be the greatest thing to ever happen to Southern NB. It would create a decade worth of Construction and in 25-30 years when we Decommission PLGS we would still have another 25-30 years out of the new reactors left. Also the majority of the transportation lines to the southern states have already been constructed.

On another topic, The Oil Refinery is already past its designed Life expectancy, if we dont build another, we will be decommissioning the one we do have in the next few years.

With mounting tension and a $400 million dollar arms build up by the Americans in the Middle East on Christmas Day (most people probably didnt catch that cause they were busy openeing presents) we are set to endure another propoganda war being created. Americans are pinning the Iranians with shutting down the main supply line of oil from OPEC nations. Oil prices will rise significantly in North America meaning a lot of rich American politicians stand to gain alot from this "new war".

But Irving will benefit as well, Saint Johnners will get a second refinery and the Tar Sands will boom again out West....

I wouldn't be surprised to see a second reactor announce in the next 3 months, as Lepreau will be complete and fired up again by the end of summer with most work wrapping up in spring. The skilled trades are here now and we would be wise to keep them before they leave for out west, Halifax and Newfoundland.

Happy new Year!

[Ire Narissis]

I'm with you on nuclear energy, Doyle. There's a lot of fearmongering and misinformation circulating about it, and disasters like Chernobyl and Fukushima add fuel to the fire for opponents of nuclear energy.

Nevermind that Chernobyl occurred only because of unsafe experiments being carried out in secret on an already-unsafe reactor design, or that Fukushima occurred because of a barrage of severe natural disasters beyond what anyone could have foreseen. In New Brunswick we have no fear of a disaster on par with Fukushima since the Bay of Fundy is not about to experience a tsunami, nor an earthquake of that magnitude.

Having said all that, I do feel that, as much as I support nuclear energy, the world would be wise to invest in developing technologies that are even safer and that mitigate the spent fuel storage issue. I would love to see development of liquid fuel thorium reactors happen in earnest; they have incredible potential.

[kwajo]

The plant will be built near Lorneville in the industrial park... The construction of a shipping terminal was started there a few years ago but was never completed.

It will be completed by the new company and the entire operation will be based there.

Cheers...
Are you sure it's not going in the McAllister industrial park?

[DoyleRulez]

Agreed. Future technologies are the answer, but even if something like Fusion is solved in the next 5 years, we will not likely start to experience the benefits until well into retirement (I'm in my mid 20's)

Point Lepreau and Canadian technology literally cannot melt down, even if a Tsunami hit, because our reactors are Heavy Water designs. A loss of coolant, literally stops the reaction and the reactor just shuts down.

Think if you pulled the coollant and oil out of your car when if you were going full bore on a dyno. The engine would just seize up. The reaction would stop. No meltdown would be possible because theres no more nuclear motion. Your car would be toast in this example though.

Also the spent fuel issue is largely misunderstood. Spent fuel from Canadian reactors cannot be used for Nuclear weapons as it is not refined uranium like american and french tech. Also it only takes about 100 years for radiation to decay and you would be able to handle the majority of it by hand in open air, not 100's of thousands of year as I often see in print.

**In other news I think Boston Pizza will do extremely well on the West Side.

[Ire Narissis]

Heh... well, the radioactivity issue was what I was referring to. I was under the impression that even light water power reactors didn't produce isotopes fit for weapons-grade applications. But I could easily be wrong about that. :)

[cdnguys]

Interesting theory but Brent Sea Crude is actually seeing very good profits these days.

Not sure where you heard that Irving laid off 20% but that is inaccurate. That would be all over the news.

The rumors of a second refinery are extremely strong within the financial world right now, it is interesting to hear that the unions are also hearing the same thing. Starting to look likely that something is being planned.

That combined with all the new port activity and we could see a boom at least on par with Halifax. That would be amazing for the region in general.

I think my posting was misunderstood. Firstly as far as profits go with crude prices - that is only for oil companies that extract the oil from the ground. Irving does not extract it - in fact have to purchase that crude at that high price. The margins on gasoline currently for many refineries ranges from marginally little to negative. Irving competes mostly in the USA northeast - they are competing with companies that refine their oil in Louisiana and Texas where WTI is $8 cheaper per barrel than Brent - that puts Irving at a huge competitive disadvantage. Think of Irving as a USA refinery on Canadian soil. As for layoffs - it was in the news:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2011/11/29/nb-irving-oil-layoffs.html
That's only office staff - not including refinery workers let go and contractors. Times are lean in the refining industry but I think Irving will survive this negative cycle - however a second refinery is dead. Irving and BP concluded that gasoline consumption has actually peaked in North America in 2007 and is now declining due to more fuel efficient cars, an aging population that drives less, alternative fuels and the weak economy.

[cdnguys]

Shale gas is terrible for the environment. "Canadian" Nuclear power plants are arguably the greenest source of power in the world. Less damaging on the environment than the environmental alterations created by Hydro dams, and have a smaller carbon footprint than the production of windmills.

Radiation Propoganda is a pet peeve of mine, fear is derived from ignorance.



If Areva built in NB it would mark the first time a Light Water reactor was built in Canada (Fukashima anyone?) and the first time it wasn't built by Canadians with a Canadian technology (No chance of Chernobyl or Fukashima with Heavy water design). It would crush our single most successful Canadian technology sector of the last century. The entire industry would be infiltrated and the economy of another country would benefit.

Oh, but we voted Harper back into a majority party leader and he paid SNC-Lavalin 79 billion$ to take it all off our hands along with all the assets. Good Job Liberals!

The company is set to make billions in the coming years. And if they fail?...little known fact, but Harper ensured canadian tax payers are still on the hook for any losses incurred. Yay!

Point Lepreau was originally designed to be 2 reactors but conservative SJ voted against it. A bank of 2-4 additional reactors would be the greatest thing to ever happen to Southern NB. It would create a decade worth of Construction and in 25-30 years when we Decommission PLGS we would still have another 25-30 years out of the new reactors left. Also the majority of the transportation lines to the southern states have already been constructed.

On another topic, The Oil Refinery is already past its designed Life expectancy, if we dont build another, we will be decommissioning the one we do have in the next few years.

With mounting tension and a $400 million dollar arms build up by the Americans in the Middle East on Christmas Day (most people probably didnt catch that cause they were busy openeing presents) we are set to endure another propoganda war being created. Americans are pinning the Iranians with shutting down the main supply line of oil from OPEC nations. Oil prices will rise significantly in North America meaning a lot of rich American politicians stand to gain alot from this "new war".

But Irving will benefit as well, Saint Johnners will get a second refinery and the Tar Sands will boom again out West....

I wouldn't be surprised to see a second reactor announce in the next 3 months, as Lepreau will be complete and fired up again by the end of summer with most work wrapping up in spring. The skilled trades are here now and we would be wise to keep them before they leave for out west, Halifax and Newfoundland.

Happy new Year!

Say what? Half of it was built it 2000 with the King of Cats project. People in the know would tell you it is one of the best maintained refinery in the world!!

[nwalbert]

I think my posting was misunderstood.

Not misunderstood, just disagreed with.


As for layoffs - it was in the news:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2011/11/29/nb-irving-oil-layoffs.html That's only office staff - not including refinery workers let go and contractors.

Huh? I am unaware of any refinery workers that were let go? If 78 people is 20% of Irvings workforce they are indeed in trouble. :) I think your original quote is quite inaccurate.


Times are lean in the refining industry but I think Irving will survive this negative cycle - however a second refinery is dead. Irving and BP concluded that gasoline consumption has actually peaked in North America in 2007 and is now declining due to more fuel efficient cars, an aging population that drives less, alternative fuels and the weak economy.

Yes, the weak economy stopped the project in 2007. The US economy continues to rebound nicely. As our dollar gets weaker that is of course a significant advantage for the Irving's.

[cdnguys]

Not misunderstood, just disagreed with.


Huh? I am unaware of any refinery workers that were let go? If 78 people is 20% of Irvings workforce they are indeed in trouble. :) I think your original quote is quite inaccurate.



Yes, the weak economy stopped the project in 2007. The US economy continues to rebound nicely. As our dollar gets weaker that is of course a significant advantage for the Irving's.

My good friend was laid off along with over 100 tradespeople in the maintenance program just before Xmas. That's not a rumor but fact.

[cdnguys]

Not misunderstood, just disagreed with.


Huh? I am unaware of any refinery workers that were let go? If 78 people is 20% of Irvings workforce they are indeed in trouble. :) I think your original quote is quite inaccurate.



Yes, the weak economy stopped the project in 2007. The US economy continues to rebound nicely. As our dollar gets weaker that is of course a significant advantage for the Irving's.

If you re read my post it's says office staff not refinery. Number is accurate

[JHikka]

My good friend was laid off along with over 100 tradespeople in the maintenance program just before Xmas. That's not a rumor but fact.

Can it be confirmed or denied that Irving is looking at stepping away from Unionized plumbers and pipefitters at the refinery so 1)They can lay-off workers at more ease whenever and 2)They can pay them less?

[cdnguys]

Can it be confirmed or denied that Irving is looking at stepping away from Unionized plumbers and pipefitters at the refinery so 1)They can lay-off workers at more ease whenever and 2)They can pay them less?

Irving does not employ the tradespeople. Maintenance is contracted out to Jacobs Industrial Services and a few other small contractors. Asked my buddy and said he didn't think that would be the case as relations are very well between Irving / Contractors / Unions at refinery.

[JHikka]

Irving does not employ the tradespeople. Maintenance is contracted out to Jacobs Industrial Services and a few other small contractors. Asked my buddy and said he didn't think that would be the case as relations are very well between Irving / Contractors / Unions at refinery.

Understood.

**In other news I think Boston Pizza will do extremely well on the West Side.

I can't agree with this more.

[ErickMontreal]

Whatever happens, something needs to happen!

According to this (http://davidwcampbell.com/?p=5004), SJ dropped 2,100 jobs while Moncton was gaining 3,400.

Saint John saw a 3% (http://davidwcampbell.com/?p=5013#comments) drop in employment in 2011 alone.

[Wolkenkratzerliebhab]

Interesting theory but Brent Sea Crude is actually seeing very good profits these days.

Not sure where you heard that Irving laid off 20% but that is inaccurate. That would be all over the news.

The rumors of a second refinery are extremely strong within the financial world right now, it is interesting to hear that the unions are also hearing the same thing. Starting to look likely that something is being planned.

That combined with all the new port activity and we could see a boom at least on par with Halifax. That would be amazing for the region in general.

I sure hope so!