News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The $120-million Route 8 Marysville Bypass will be officially opened to the public at the end of August.

Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Claude Williams and Fredericton MP Keith Ashfield toured the project site today to view the progress.

“This new highway will provide a safer and more efficient route for through traffic, while also removing heavy truck traffic from residential areas around the capital city,” said Williams. “The trucking industry and the provincial economy will also benefit from this new transportation corridor providing smooth and efficient access to the Miramichi region and points north and east.”

The 36 kilometers of two-lane roadway is an access-controlled highway bypassing Route 8 from Bridge Street in Marysville to South Portage along the east side of the Nashwaak River. The project also includes 15 kilometers of wildlife fencing. Planning for the project began in 2006.

“This project is a priority for our government, for New Brunswick and for local residents,” said Ashfield. “This new stretch of highway will reduce road congestion and more importantly will significantly improve road safety for area residents and travelers. Through this project, and others like it, our government is creating new jobs and stimulating the local economy.”

“I also want to acknowledge the tremendous amount of collaboration between Tobique-Mactaquac MP Mike Allen and York North MLA Kirk MacDonald to make this critical infrastructure a success,” said Williams.

The provincial government is providing $75.6 million to the project while the federal government is contributing $44.4 million through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund.