New Brunswick Residents Demand Route 955 Overhaul for Safety, Meet with Minister Jeff Carr

Residents living along Route 955 in New Brunswick have raised concerns over the road’s safety, prompting a collective call for a comprehensive upgrade. This scenic yet perilous stretch, leading to Murray Beach Provincial Park and Prince Edward Island, has become a focal point of community unrest. Stephen Robb, a local business owner, spearheaded a petition with 300 signatures, urging the provincial government to address the deteriorating conditions exacerbated by heavy tourist traffic.

Community Voices and Safety Concerns

For over four decades, Sharon Allan has witnessed the road’s decline, now describing it as dangerously narrow, with some sections barely accommodating two vehicles side by side. The neglected road shoulders and infrequent grass trimming along the route pose additional hazards, increasing the risk of accidents involving wildlife. Chris Stright, associated with the Botsford Harbour Marina, highlighted the adverse effects on local workers’ commutes, emphasizing the frequency of collisions with deer, moose, and bears during twilight hours. Dieter Becker, a resident, criticized temporary fixes like chip sealing as ineffective, sharing a personal incident where his son-in-law suffered a tire blowout due to a pothole.

Government Response and Planned Repairs

In response to the growing discontent, a delegation of eight residents, including Robb, is slated to meet with Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Jeff Carr. Their aim is to persuade the government to undertake a significant overhaul of Route 955, emphasizing the need for widening and repaving. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, through spokesperson Tyler McLean, outlined two scheduled repair projects for 2024. These include embankment and asphalt work near Scott Brook and culvert replacement at McMorris Brook, both areas previously damaged by hurricanes Dorian and Fiona, respectively.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Safety and Community Well-being

The concerted effort by Route 955 residents to address the road’s safety issues reflects a broader concern for community well-being and the local economy, particularly given the area’s significance as part of the Acadian Coastal Drive. The upcoming meeting with Minister Jeff Carr represents a critical juncture in their campaign, potentially setting the stage for meaningful improvements. As the community awaits the government’s action, the situation underscores the vital link between infrastructure, safety, and quality of life in rural New Brunswick.