News Release

BATHURST (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments are investing $5.8 million to support two infrastructure projects in Bathurst – including one at a former mill site – that will enable new housing development.

“This investment marks another important step forward in the redevelopment of the former Smurfit-Stone mill site in Bathurst,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage, who is also the minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “By supporting critical upgrades and redevelopment projects, we are helping the city and the province prepare for future housing opportunities, economic growth and a better quality of life for families.”

One project involves rebuilding the road and all underground utilities on Chaleur Street. This also includes a new storm sewer on Evangeline Drive and a new sidewalk to improve pedestrian access.

The other project, on Bridge Street, will extend utility services to the former mill site to support new residential and commercial development opportunities. The work is meant to revitalize the area, attract developers and support the city’s housing goals.

“By partnering with New Brunswick and the City of Bathurst, we’re delivering future housing opportunities to help get projects off the ground,” said Acadie-Bathurst MP Serge Cormier. “Through programs like this one, and with organizations such as Build Canada Homes, we’re working with governments, builders and communities to drive innovation in the homebuilding industry – bringing the right partners together to accelerate the delivery of more affordable homes for Canadians. It will also be wonderful to finally develop and bring new life to the old mill site.”

Cormier attended for federal Housing and Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson.

The provincial government is investing $2.3 million through the Regional Development Corporation’s Preconstruction and Infrastructure Fund to Support Housing. The federal government is contributing $3.5 million through the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund.

“The mill site property announcement is a defining milestone for our municipality and our citizens,” said Bathurst Mayor Kim Chamberlain. “It lays the foundation for the final stages of renewal for the property, maximizing its development potential. And the Chaleur Street project renews vital infrastructure in an important sector of our distribution network. We are very much cognizant of the collaboration and support of our federal and provincial colleagues to make these projects a reality.”