News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The Connell Road overpass in the westbound lanes of the Trans-Canada Highway near Woodstock will be replaced this summer.

Brun-Way Highways Operations Inc., who is responsible for the operation, maintenance and rehabilitation of the Trans-Canada Highway from the Quebec border to Longs Creek, including Route 95 from Woodstock to the U.S. border, is replacing the overpass as part of their capital upgrade plan using asset management principles.

“Our government understands the importance of maintaining infrastructure more effectively by respecting asset management principles,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Roger Melanson. “We are proud that Brun-Way will be undertaking this upgrade as part of their agreement with the provincial government.”

Work on the overpass will begin in May and is expected to continue until the end of October.

“This bridge, built in 1959, is reaching the end of its service life and is in need of either significant rehabilitation or a complete replacement” said Roméo Poitras, manager of operations, maintenance and rehabilitation for Brun-Way. “Our goal is to build, maintain and operate our infrastructure effectively, and provide value to our customers. Replacing this structure was expected and included in our asset management system.”

Brun-Way will also be investing in two paving projects this summer as part of their rehabilitation program. Over 50,000 tonnes of asphalt will be used to pave between Saint-Basile and the Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska area, as well as between Perth-Andover and Centreville. These two paving projects will be completed during July and August.

Brun-Way has a 28-year contract with the Trans-Canada Highway Project Corp. which expires in the year 2033.

“Infrastructure renewal is essential to maintaining an efficient transportation network in our province,” said Melanson. “That is why our government is focused on strategic infrastructure investments to boost our economy in the short-term through job creation and in the long-term through the maintenance and rehabilitation of our infrastructure resources.”

With the summer construction season about to begin, New Brunswickers are reminded to take precautions and reduce their speed in construction areas to ensure their own safety and the safety of construction crews.