The Official Moncton, NB Project Thread

[ErickMontreal]

The intersection of Champlain st and Acadia ave. is what I'm talking about...at certain times of the day its almost as bad as prospect and regent here in Freddy, which is BAD (as you know haha).


Its true both intersections are a real mess. I think Champlain really deserves some upgrades as same as Paul Street does.

We`ve got 1000 ! Congratulation guys, keep up good work !

[mylesmalley]

Over 1000!!!

[mmmatt]

Over 1000!!!

haha yeah! took almost a year...but we made it!!

[ErickMontreal]

haha yeah! took almost a year...but we made it!!

:cheers:

Way to go Moncton-Dieppe-Riverview-Memramcook-Shediac-Salisbury ect :haha:

[mylesmalley]

:cheers:

Way to go Moncton-Dieppe-Riverview-Memramcook-Shediac-Salisbury ect :haha:

The city sounds so much more impressive when you call it Greater Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe-Salisbury-Shediac-Petitcodiac-Memramcook-Coverdale-Scoudouc-Hillsborough-Berry-Mills

[ErickMontreal]

From Terrain Group :
:: Port Royal Center, Moncton, NB ::

http://www.remaxnb.ca/images/listings/portroyalestates.jpg

Project Description
Terrain Group was retained by Emery Stephen Holdings to provide design services for the development of Centre Port Royal Center. The entire development is contained on approximately 9 hectares of land and will consist of both commercial and residential uses. The development is planned in two phases. To date Terrain has completed Phase One of the development. Phase One included engineering design and construction support services for the completion of Lady Ada Blvd, the primary entrance into the development. This will allow for strip malls, offices, restaurants, factory outlet facilities as well as other commercial activities. The construction of the first building – Future Inns – a four star (4*) full service 130-room and suites hotel has begun and plans to be completed by Spring 2006. Phase Two of Centre Port Royal Center will consist of an additional four-storey affordable luxury condominium with 100 units. The final phase will consist of a luxury high-end condominium building with 100 units that will not exceed eight storeys

[mylesmalley]

From Terrain Group :
:: Port Royal Center, Moncton, NB ::

http://www.remaxnb.ca/images/listings/portroyalestates.jpg

Project Description
Terrain Group was retained by Emery Stephen Holdings to provide design services for the development of Centre Port Royal Center. The entire development is contained on approximately 9 hectares of land and will consist of both commercial and residential uses. The development is planned in two phases. To date Terrain has completed Phase One of the development. Phase One included engineering design and construction support services for the completion of Lady Ada Blvd, the primary entrance into the development. This will allow for strip malls, offices, restaurants, factory outlet facilities as well as other commercial activities. The construction of the first building – Future Inns – a four star (4*) full service 130-room and suites hotel has begun and plans to be completed by Spring 2006. Phase Two of Centre Port Royal Center will consist of an additional four-storey affordable luxury condominium with 100 units. The final phase will consist of a luxury high-end condominium building with 100 units that will not exceed eight storeys

I think I've made my opinion on strip malls pretty clear over the last few months. I love this development though. Those apartments are enormous, plus the hotel in the middle are great. If/when all this stuff gets built, it will make a great entrance to the city.

[Smevo]

I'm surprised by the Port Royal Centre...in a good way. I was expecting your standard power centre (without the apartment/condo units). Still pretty standard architecture, but at least it's higher density as opposed to the cookie cutter single family home subdivisions, which btw we're lucky aren't as bad as the ones in Quebec and Ontario. :cheers:

No joke, driving out of Montreal last month, we past a new subdivision beside the highway...all the houses were the exact same (ah, suburbs). Anyway, sidetracked...

The intersection of Champlain st and Acadia ave. is what I'm talking about...at certain times of the day its almost as bad as prospect and regent here in Freddy, which is BAD (as you know haha).

You have a point about the Moncton airport, in Moncton we have the only NAV Canada control tower in the maritimes because all those flights pass over us. However Gander is the city/town in NFLD with a NAV tower (for the same reason as Moncton) but most flights in and out of that province are at St. Johns. The difference there of course is that Moncton is the center of the maritimes and Gander is far from center of NFLD...So possibly we could pull it off...just not so sure Halogians (spell) would want to start needing to drive 3 hours to Moncton for every flight, or switch planes in our airport.

Does that intersection have as many people running red lights and trying to turn left despite 5 posted "no lefts allowed under any circumstances" signs. (sorry, a little bitter at the drivers here in Freddy).

As for the airport, they'd just have to attract an airline that will provide the service, not necessarily steal it from Halifax. HfxMtl is right about the ridiculous customs situation though...and it's not just in Moncton. The "direct" flight between Sydney and Cuba from SunWing has to stop to clear customs in Halifax before continuing on the same plane because they wouldn't hire another officer for the Sydney airport (there's only two officers in Sydney and both work the seaport...and they can refuse overtime which is a right I'd never take away from them).

[mmmatt]

The city sounds so much more impressive when you call it Greater Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe-Salisbury-Shediac-Petitcodiac-Memramcook-Coverdale-Scoudouc-Hillsborough-Berry-Mills

hahaha so true...dont forget good ol' Dorchester! Where would we be without the prison capital of Moncton CMA?

[mmmatt]

Does that intersection have as many people running red lights and trying to turn left despite 5 posted "no lefts allowed under any circumstances" signs. (sorry, a little bitter at the drivers here in Freddy).

As for the airport, they'd just have to attract an airline that will provide the service, not necessarily steal it from Halifax. HfxMtl is right about the ridiculous customs situation though...and it's not just in Moncton. The "direct" flight between Sydney and Cuba from SunWing has to stop to clear customs in Halifax before continuing on the same plane because they wouldn't hire another officer for the Sydney airport (there's only two officers in Sydney and both work the seaport...and they can refuse overtime which is a right I'd never take away from them).

That intersection is pretty bad, but not as bad as prospect/regent...that is probably the last place in NB you want to be at 5pm. Ive noticed the people running reds too its foolish...sometimes 5 cars go through a red light! They should install a traffic cam there!

Back to Moncton haha :cool:

The customs thing is the most foolish setup I have ever heard of in my life...The feds obviously care very little to not be able to hire on a few extra people to fill the gaps...its not that hard and it would make a WORLD of difference!! I didnt know you guys had the same problem in Sydney...that just makes me more angry.


EDIT: and by traffic cam i meant one of those cameras that takes a picture of peoples license plate when they run a red and tickets them automatically haha.

[mylesmalley]

hahaha so true...dont forget good ol' Dorchester! Where would we be without the prison capital of Moncton CMA?

A thousand apologies to Dorchester. That's a spooky place, too. Not sure exactly why though.

As bad as the traffic can be in Moncton (Plaza-Mountain-Wheeler-Trinity), it can't compare to the line ups from Prospect to Beaverbrook at 4:30 in Freddy.

[ErickMontreal]

I saw for the first time in a while a project that avoid the standard architecture that we used to see everywhere throughout the city. The project is located in Dieppe along Champlain by the National bank building. Its a high-end 7-story condo tower. You could check the advertising out along the street.

[mylesmalley]

I saw for the first time in a while a project that avoid the standard architecture that we used to see everywhere throughout the city. The project is located in Dieppe along Champlain by the National bank building. Its a high-end 7-story condo tower. You could check the advertising out along the street.

Woah, when was this announced?

[ErickMontreal]

Woah, when was this announced?

A while back (at least 6 months) so like Port Royal, I don`t know whats going on with that project.

[mylesmalley]

A while back (at least 6 months) so like Port Royal, I don`t know whats going on with that project.

I see. 7 stories would make it... 3 stories taller than anything else in Dieppe.

[mmmatt]

I saw for the first time in a while a project that avoid the standard architecture that we used to see everywhere throughout the city. The project is located in Dieppe along Champlain by the National bank building. Its a high-end 7-story condo tower. You could check the advertising out along the street.

Are you serious?!!! a 7 story condo tower in downtown Dieppe!!! Thats amazing! I cant believe I never heard of it. Ill need to check it out next time I go up.

You know downtown Dieppe is really booming...its so cool. I foresee a day in the future (maybe not too far off) when the fast expanding downtown Dieppe will meet up with the also fast expanding downtown Moncton...it could be like the Moncton/Dieppe strip! (kinda like the Las Vegas strip except slightly less cool). And when Moncton gets assumption blvd all dense and whatnot it could be close to a respectable urban area!!

we just need:

Convention center/hotel/casino
new police station
new courthouse
new condos
new assumption tower
etc...to all be built (some are a sure thing...others are a good possibility) in that area

then we need to get that plot of land between Rodd Inn and that random strip mall filled in with a nice 6-8 story condo/office. then densify the other side of the street where Subaru dealer/RV store is...then further densify where champlain mall/strips across the street are...then irving and kent etc etc...could be nice! :notacrook:


rambling session complete :tup:

[mmmatt]

I see. 7 stories would make it... 3 stories taller than anything else in Dieppe.

haha yeah...might look out of place for a while, but soon maybe not.

[ErickMontreal]

I see. 7 stories would make it... 3 stories taller than anything else in Dieppe.

So true and It could be the higher building since Blue Cross in term of number of story. It`s closed to home, I will looking for the promoters of that project, I saw that really quickly, I`m back in a few.

[Smevo]

It's nice when a developer decides to do a not-just-the-same-old-boring-style-seen-everywhere-in-the-city development. When I seen those, I don't even really care about height usually, though 7 stories is definitely respectable, especially for Dieppe.

[mylesmalley]

It's nice when a developer decides to do a not-just-the-same-old-boring-style-seen-everywhere-in-the-city development. When I seen those, I don't even really care about height usually, though 7 stories is definitely respectable, especially for Dieppe.

I agree the city could use some more creativity with its architecture. Before they built that office building next to AOL, the architect was interviewed by the T&T. They asked him why so many buildings looked the same and cost the bare minimum. He basically pointed out that its all about economics.

It costs a lot of money to have spheroid shaped art-deco office buildings coated in glass and brushed metal. The buildings with the more striking architecture tend to be higher income properties like white-collar condos and large corporate offices (Blue Cross). Moncton is very much a middle class city, so we shouldn't really expect to see high class stuff going up all over.

[mylesmalley]

haha yeah...might look out of place for a while, but soon maybe not.

You're right. Moncton doesn't have a history of having one or two buildings towering over the rest of downtown :p

[mmmatt]

So true and It could be the higher building since Blue Cross in term of number of story. It`s closed to home, I will looking for the promoters of that project, I saw that really quickly, I`m back in a few.

Blue Cross is 9 storys.

Since then (1988)

There has been (in terms of over 5 stories)...

Year--Height---Name

1996--6 story--Moncton City Hall

1996--6 story--Moncton Place

2003--6 story--Chateau Moncton

2006--6 story--Belmar Plaza

2008--6 story--Marriott

And Im pretty sure Royal Court is newer...and its 6 storys as well

[mylesmalley]

Blue Cross is 9 storys.

Since then (1988)

There has been (in terms of over 5 stories)...

Year--Height---Name

1996--6 story--Moncton City Hall

1996--6 story--Moncton Place

2003--6 story--Chateau Moncton

2006--6 story--Belmar Plaza

2008--6 story--Marriott

And Im pretty sure Royal Court is newer...and its 6 storys as well

Where's this Belmar Plaza?

Also, Royal Court had to have been built before 1999/2000 or so. I had a relative there for a while around then.

[ErickMontreal]

The project is called "Evangeline Place". Its a 6-story multi-use project as high as Moncton city hall. There are seven condos for sale and one of these is already sold. The project looks a bit boxy but its quite great for Dieppe perspective. I really dont know the status though

[ErickMontreal]

I agree the city could use some more creativity with its architecture. Before they built that office building next to AOL, the architect was interviewed by the T&T. They asked him why so many buildings looked the same and cost the bare minimum. He basically pointed out that its all about economics.

It costs a lot of money to have spheroid shaped art-deco office buildings coated in glass and brushed metal. The buildings with the more striking architecture tend to be higher income properties like white-collar condos and large corporate offices (Blue Cross). Moncton is very much a middle class city, so we shouldn't really expect to see high class stuff going up all over.

Very well said. We should keep in our mind as Myles said that Moncton is a middle-class city with a medium size population. I mean for the city size Moncton has a decent downtown as well as skyline.

[mmmatt]

Where's this Belmar Plaza?

Also, Royal Court had to have been built before 1999/2000 or so. I had a relative there for a while around then.

Mountain Rd

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f232/stu_pendousmat/belmar.jpg

[ErickMontreal]

Mountain Rd

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f232/stu_pendousmat/belmar.jpg


I really like this one, I would like to see a couples of these in inner city.

[ErickMontreal]

we just need:

Convention center/hotel/casino
new police station
new courthouse
new condos
new assumption tower
etc...to all be built (some are a sure thing...others are a good possibility) in that area


In the best world :

Convention center/hotel/casino :: Could stat end 2008
new police station :: Really don`t know
new courthouse :: This spring for sure
new condos :: hard to say
new assumption tower :: Still on board.

[mmmatt]

I like to keep a little colour on every new page of this forum...so heres some views of Moncton I found on a roam around Flickr.

___________________________________________________________________
Some interesting views we dont see often perhaps...from lacasse on Flickr
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/120/262322929_104010a111_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/89/262322904_db066775e5_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/92/262322809_6435287e4c_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/110/262322135_15d051cac0_o.jpg
___________________________________________________________________

Some cool pics of the Capitol from mazecanadia on Flickr

Interior
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/56/139851313_895b91f72a.jpg

Man was it ugly before restoration :S looks 100% better now!
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/49/139851085_769894654c.jpg?v=0
___________________________________________________________________

Some random pics from marcline on Flickr

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/159/414365170_a00d6eeeed.jpg?v=0

Heres a current view of the Capitol...much better :D
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/480615540_f708a25a22.jpg?v=0

Relay for life in Centennial park
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1120/536755070_fdc9119751.jpg?v=0
__________________________________________________________________

A couple from Brikwall on Flickr

Old rink...burned down a very long time ago...makes for some sweet looking ruins though!
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1399/1175382919_6237f1d5e8.jpg?v=0

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/171/470624132_279023c89a.jpg?v=0
__________________________________________________________________

[JasonL-Moncton]

It would be cool if they 'restored' that old circular rink...

I live near Belmar Plaza and that is a gorgeous building...a little out of place...but not as out of place as the one down by Sounds Fantastic (don't know if it has a name).

[mylesmalley]

It would be cool if they 'restored' that old circular rink...

I live near Belmar Plaza and that is a gorgeous building...a little out of place...but not as out of place as the one down by Sounds Fantastic (don't know if it has a name).

You mean the big orange one? It looked out of place when it first went up, but now that there are buildings of equal height all around it, I think it looks pretty good. It's funny. Gordon street, by between Vaughan Harvey and the train tracks is one of my favorite parts of Moncton, yet it's also one of the most run down...

[mmmatt]

You mean the big orange one? It looked out of place when it first went up, but now that there are buildings of equal height all around it, I think it looks pretty good. It's funny. Gordon street, by between Vaughan Harvey and the train tracks is one of my favorite parts of Moncton, yet it's also one of the most run down...

I agree...I live right around there (other side of Vaughn Harvey though) and I think that orange building has actually grown on me...Ive walked by it a few times and I seem to like it more and more each time.

[mmmatt]

By Yvon Gauvin
Times & Transcript staff
Published Tuesday December 11th, 2007
Appeared on page C2

Single residential construction starts remained unchanged for Moncton in November over the previous year but the number of multiple units jumped significantly at 67 compared to 37 in November 2006.

The number of single starts, at 37, was also virtually unchanged from October's total of 36.

Province-wide, the number of housing starts in major urban centres trailed behind last year with 231 units last month compared to 244 in November 2006, according to preliminary figures released by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

"Although single starts remained strong, fewer multiples in November led to the overall decline for the month", explained Claude Gautreau, CMHC's Senior Market Analyst for New Brunswick.

There were 136 single residence starts in new Brunswick urban centres last month, up 9 units from last year, with both Saint John and Fredericton reporting increases over last year and Moncton unchanged at 37.

However, the total number of multiple units dropped from 117 in November 2006 to 93 last month, while the year-to-date totals dropped from 1,300 last year to 1,213 this year.

The strong single unit showing managed to offset the decline in multiple starts on a year-to-date basis, said Gautreau.

Nationally, total housing starts for November in urban centres trailed behind last year's total by three per cent from 17,998 in November 2006 to 17,077 last month.

Single unit starts rose from 7,486 in November 2006 to 8,063 last month while multiple units starts dropped 14 per cent from 10,312 units in November 2006 to 9,012 last month.

In the Atlantic Region, a total of 738 starts were recorded last month compared to 819 in November of 2006.

[ErickMontreal]

Province to fund Mapleton Road widening
Project included in N.B. capital budget, to be tabled today

By Mary Moszynski
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Tuesday December 11th, 2007
Appeared on page A1

FREDERICTON - Finance Minister Victor Boudreau will table what's being billed as the largest capital budget in the province's history this afternoon with funds earmarked for the widening of Mapleton Road and several other key road repairs.

The Times & Transcript has learned the Department of Transportation's 2008-2009 budget will include a project to widen Mapleton Road -- arguably one of Metro Moncton's top road projects.

The details of what the money will be used for won't likely be made available until the Department of Transportation outlines its budget estimates in the coming weeks.

However, a government source said the money will be available this year.

Mapleton Road is becoming the main gateway into Moncton as the area has grown into one of Metro's most popular business development areas.

If Moncton's works budget passes as is, the city will set aside $5.5 million this year to widen the road from Trinity Drive to Highway 2, the Trans-Canada Highway.

The provincial government has previously committed $3 million to the project, as well as another $3 million for the bridge over Wheeler Boulevard.

The capital budget will also include funds to fix the ruts on 27 kilometres of Route 15 between Moncton and Shediac. The road is considered hazardous and the deep ruts cause motorists to hydroplane during rainfall, forcing drivers to straddle the yellow line to avoid potholes.

As well, 24 kilometres of Route 126 between Miramichi and Moncton will be paved in the areas most in need of repair, said the source.

Premier Shawn Graham has said the Department of Transportation will develop a new system of determining which roads are in need of repair, promising to take the "politics out of paving."

Last year the Liberal government cut the transportation budget by $60 million.

Metro Moncton residents will also be looking to see what long-awaited projects will receive funds from the education budget.

Although the specifics of the education department's budget will be unveiled at a later date, Metro parents will likely be anxious to see whether Moncton will receive a new north end school.

Significant renovations to Moncton High School are also a top priority for parents, as well as the multi-million renovations for Ecolé Clément-Courmier in Bouctouche announced Friday in a speech by Graham.

Another priority for the city has been a new jail, as promised by the former Conservative government.

Public Safety Minister John Foran has yet to confirm whether money to continue planning for the jail will be included in Boudreau's capital budget.

It's also unknown whether funds will be included for a catheterization laboratory for Metro Moncton. The Liberals had promised to establish a "cath lab" in the city by 2008.

In January, Health Minister Mike Murphy announced the lab would be located at the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont Regional Hospital and jointly managed by the Beauséjour and South-East Regional health authorities, but the process to establish the lab wouldn't be set in motion until the 2008-2009 fiscal year, and only if "the numbers warrant it."
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Dieppe city council unveils municipal plan
Public comment invited on final draft of document

By Aloma Jardine
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Tuesday December 11th, 2007
Appeared on page A3

It's been six years in the making, but Dieppe's new municipal plan is in the home stretch.

The revised plan was presented to the public at city council's regular meeting Monday night.

The 164-page document covers every aspect of the city's future development, from culture and heritage to industrial development.

Dieppe Mayor Achille Maillet says he's very pleased with the result.

"It is a guide for us, not only to continue the economic growth, but to make sure development in Dieppe is done in a very appropriate kind of way," he says.

One of the main aims of the new plan is to manage Dieppe's tremendous growth.

"The city has done a great job of investing in infrastructure over the last few years, opening up new areas. Now that they've made those investments, I think they have to sit back and let development take off," says Bill Budd, executive director of the Greater Moncton Planning District Commission. "They've got a game plan that addresses the environment, active living, recreation, residential, downtown... It is all coming together and this plan will help guide that for the next five to ten years."

The city has the luxury of creating from the ground up. It is in the process of building a downtown and development on Dieppe Boulevard is really just getting started.

One aspect of the plan calls for the creation of "walkable neighbourhoods" -- areas along Dieppe Boulevard that will contain a mix of residential and commercial development so residents have the most necessary goods and services within walking distance.

"You will almost have mini downtown areas," Budd says. "It is living, recreating, and working in the same area."

In the downtown area, the plan is to encourage higher density development, with buildings between two and five-storeys high.

The city also wants to see high quality building design, with windows and public entrances facing the street, and is encouraging the use of quality materials like brick, stone, and wood.

Single family and two-unit dwellings will no longer be permitted on Champlain Street, which has been designated a mixed use area. Residential units will continue to be permitted on the upper floors of commercial buildings.

Residents now have 30 days to offer their comments about the plan, which is available online at www.dieppe.ca. Copies are also available to view at Dieppe city hall and the Greater Moncton Planning District Commission office, 655 Main St.

Budd will return to council Jan. 14 with a report on the comments received and a date will be set for a public hearing on any concerns raised.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Gunningsville Rd. traffic lights on by Christmas

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=61269&size=300x0
The three sets of traffic lights for Gunningsville Boulevard will be installed at Pine Glen Road, Findlay Boulevard and Pinder Road.

TIMES & TRANSCRIPT STAFF
Published Tuesday December 11th, 2007
Appeared on page A4

The long-awaited traffic lights for Gunningsville Boulevard should be up and running by Christmas, Riverview's director of Public Works promised last night.

"The lights are here but we've been waiting for the poles, and they should be here tomorrow," Ken Sharpe said following last night's meeting of Riverview Town Council. "We hope to have the lights on for Christmas."

The three sets of traffic lights will be installed on Gunningsville Boulevard at Pine Glen Road, Findlay Boulevard and Pinder Road.

Work on the new road has been ongoing for several months and all but complete, except for the traffic lights.

The road will connect with the new Gunningsville Bridge and Coverdale Road. It will allow traffic to flow up the hill, skirting the golf course and connect with Findlay Boulevard at Whitepine Road.

It is hoped the new road will ease some of the traffic tieups during morning and evening rush hours. Many Riverview residents have been concerned, since the road appears finished but has remained unopened. The town says the road won't be opened until the lights are operational for safety concerns.

Meanwhile, Parks and Recreation director Bob Clive said the new toboggan hill -- which was made with huge piles of dirt left over from the construction of the road -- will also remain closed until it can be completed. Clive said there are too many frozen clumps of dirt and rock in the hill, which could pose a safety hazard until they are smoothed out.

[JasonL-Moncton]

You mean the big orange one?

Orange? I thought it was a tan/stone color...the one I'm talking about is anyway...it's huge...with underground parking. In between Bonnacord and Archibald...it's right against the road.

Jason

[mylesmalley]

Orange? I thought it was a tan/stone color...the one I'm talking about is anyway...it's huge...with underground parking. In between Bonnacord and Archibald...it's right against the road.

Jason

Tan/orange. Close enough. That's the one I meant. There's a new building right across the street from it, plus a few behind, and further down Gordon St. which are filling in that area nicely.

[ErickMontreal]

Major Drilling profit rises

The Canadian Press

December 11, 2007 at 7:09 AM EST

MONCTON — — Major Drilling Group International Inc., [MDI-T]one of the world's largest metals and minerals contract drilling companies, says its second-quarter profit soared to $22.6-million from a year-ago $13.1-million as revenue jumped 53 per cent to a record level.

Earnings for the quarter ended Oct. 31 rose to 96 cents a share from 57 cents, the Moncton-based global company said Tuesday.

Revenue climbed up to $156.1-million from $101.8-million.

Canada-U.S. revenue increased by 37.1 per cent to $101.3-million, revenue in South and Central America increased by 54.2 per cent to $87.3-million and revenue in Australia, Asia and Africa increased 68.5 per cent to $110.9-million.
Major Drilling Group Intl.

The company acquired two businesses during the quarter: Harris Drilling in Chile and Paragon Drilling in Ecuador.

CEO Francis McGuire said in a release the strong results “were driven by a combination of additional investments in people and equipment, acquisitions and an improved pricing environment.

“This performance was achieved in spite of the effects of the strengthening

Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar. The unfavourable foreign exchange translation impact, for the quarter, when comparing to the effective rates for the same period last year, is estimated at $9 million on revenue and $1.8 million on net earnings.”

The firm took delivery of 18 new rigs that contributed revenue during the quarter.

“Overall margins continued to improve despite continuing cost increases in labour, training and safety, as well as African margins still lagging behind other regions,” Mr. McGuire said.

“Investment in recruitment and training is crucial to our continuing growth but does affect overall operating margin growth as we incur both additional costs and lower initial productivity with new crews.”

The firm aims to expand its labour force by 20 per cent this year.

The company invested $14.7-million during the quarter in its capital expenditure

program, bringing the total for the year to $29.7-million. It also spent $27.4-million on acquisitions, bringing the total net debt to $23.8-million.

[mmmatt]

Thats so cool! It always amazes me to hear about that company...hard to believe we have "one of the worlds largest" companies in any business based in Moncton. They seem to be doing better and better every year, so good for them! They did build a new hq on St. George street a year ago too :)

[ErickMontreal]

Thats so cool! It always amazes me to hear about that company...hard to believe we have "one of the worlds largest" companies in any business based in Moncton. They seem to be doing better and better every year, so good for them! They did build a new hq on St. George street a year ago too :)

Yeah thats really cool! . :tup: Where was located the former Hd ?

[mylesmalley]

There head office is on Saint George St, at the corner of Botsford (I think). What's really funny about that company is that, even though they're one of the biggest mining companies in the world, their head office is a pretty small building in an okay part of town.

And dont' forget about Spielo. They're one of the largest gambling equipment manufacturers in the world.

[mmmatt]

Yeah thats really cool! . :tup: Where was located the former Hd ?

Not too sure actually...this is the first building I have seen with thier logo on it...perhaps they were a tennant in a larger office building before.

[mmmatt]

There head office is on Saint George St, at the corner of Botsford (I think). What's really funny about that company is that, even though they're one of the biggest mining companies in the world, their head office is a pretty small building in an okay part of town.

And dont' forget about Spielo. They're one of the largest gambling equipment manufacturers in the world.

Thats true! All the more reason to build a casino here haha it only makes sense. Yeah I did find it kinda odd thier building is small...I guess most of thier employees are in the field. However with thier profits soaring who knows maybe they will build a nice new 5 story bulding downtown sometime :D I can dream...Also we have two of the largest insurance companies in Atlantic Canada here (assumption and blue cross)...one of Canadas largest fencing companies (Eastern fence) and one of Canadas largest fast food chains. (Pizza Delight/Mikes/Baton Rouge etc). We also have the largest online based real estate company in Canada basd in Moncton (ProperyGuys.com)

I made a list of such companies on Wiki a while back...heres the link if anyone wants to check it out :)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_companies_headquartered_in_Moncton

EDIT: now that I look at it Spielo isnt even on that list! haha...bear in mind it is far from complete. Ill have to add that in.

EDIT AGAIN!: Now that I look more deeply into it I realize why its not on the list...Spielo was bought out in 2004, however thier entire operation remains in Moncton...just the profits go somewhere else now haha.

[mmmatt]

Orange? I thought it was a tan/stone color...the one I'm talking about is anyway...it's huge...with underground parking. In between Bonnacord and Archibald...it's right against the road.

Jason

Yeah I was thinking of the orange one closer to Vaughn Harvey...I know the one you are talking about though...its right across the street from Sounds...and right up against the sidewalk...I do like that one too though :tup:

[mylesmalley]

Yeah I was thinking of the orange one closer to Vaughn Harvey...I know the one you are talking about though...its right across the street from Sounds...and right up against the sidewalk...I do like that one too though :tup:

That's the one I was referring to as well. I'm guessing you're talking about the Royal LePage building, then?

[mmmatt]

That's the one I was referring to as well. I'm guessing you're talking about the Royal LePage building, then?

naw Im pretty sure he's talking about an apartment building...its new, 4 stories...its on a curve in the street...not sure how else to expalin it haha Its further down the street (closer to central downtown) than the oragnge one.

[ErickMontreal]

naw Im pretty sure he's talking about an apartment building...its new, 4 stories...its on a curve in the street...not sure how else to expalin it haha Its further down the street (closer to central downtown) than the oragnge one.

I know what you are talking about, this is a high-end 4-story building, it is near by T&T parking lot. This is a great building.

[mmmatt]

December 11, 2007

"[in regards to the provinces new budget] Murphy also predicted Boudreau will announce major projects for both The Moncton Hospital and the Dumont Hospital in Moncton in his budget today.

He had no details other than that both projects "will be in seven figures" (a value of at least $1 million each)."

[ErickMontreal]

M I N U T E S – REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

6.2 Convention Center Study – PKF Consultants Ltd. Brian Stanford, PKF

Consultants Ltd., mentioned that they were retained by the City of Moncton to undertake a Market Feasibility Study for a Convention Center in downtown Moncton. He noted that their role was to look at the supply and demand factors that would influence the development, the operation and implementation of a Convention Center in Moncton. He advised that their analysis focused on the development of a standalone Convention Center located in the City’s downtown core. He presented some of their key findings: Comparing the Convention Center product within Moncton to the primary competitors inAtlantic Canada, the product offering stands strongly from an infrastructure perspective.Of the six Atlantic Canada facilities, Moncton ranked second, even without a Convention Center, and tied with St. John’s, Newfoundland who has a convention center.

A comprehensive survey was undertaken with approximately 65 meeting planners. The top criteria in selecting a destination, Moncton ranked very strongly in a number of areas, namely: quality of service, affordability, safety and security and friendly atmosphere; however, the following weaknesses were noted: quality of facilities, capacity of facilities, airlift, location, hotel blocks, destination appeal and ground transportation.

Their conclusion, from a development perspective, was that this facility be developed in the downtown core. He noted that two sites were identified:
Option 1 – The former “Beaver Lumber” site.
Option 2 – The parking lot area behind the Delta Beauséjour.

The overall capital cost of the project would be in the range of $20 to $25 million exclusive of land and parking for the recommended 50,000 square foot facility offering 24,000 square feet of rentable space and approximated $30 million for the enhanced option of 60,000 square foot facility. Assuming an equal three-way partnership between the City, the Provincial and Federal Governments, the City’s capital contribution before land and parking could total between $8 - $10 million.

Using the base and enhanced models, the subject Moncton Convention Center was projected to operate at a net loss of approximately $700,000 per year for the base option and approximately $300,000 for the enhanced model. Their cost/benefit analysis, using the aforementioned total capital budget, the municipal contribution (@ 33%), the annual cost debenture and the stabilized operating loss; the total annual cost to the City would range between $1.3 - $1.5 million.

He reviewed the three options available to Council and their implications:

1. Not to proceed with investment in the Convention Center:

• Suffering a potential loss of 13,000 room nights in meeting and convention demand, with total lost delegate expenditures valued at $4 million per annum;
• The potential impact to Moncton’s meeting and convention eroding position within Atlantic Canada, as other cities are expanding current space and building new convention facilities.

2. Proceed with investment in the Convention Center:
• Committing to combined operating and financing costs of about $1.5 million annually before land and parking; yet
• Generating an additional $9 million per year in economic impact (six (6) times more than the combined annual operating deficit and financing costs).

3. Looking into alternative projects that may carry a similar capital
commitment, less operating commitment, and stronger economic impacts for the City of Moncton

[ErickMontreal]

http://www.boommag.ca/images/logo.jpg

It is a new alternative magazine that will compete with Here`s (Irvings)

[mmmatt]

Well that certainly seems like a strong message to the city!

"build it or $&*% yourself over in the long run" :tup:

All of it is true though...it will cost the city money every year, but the economic spin offs and added population growth (due to increased visibility)(=more taxes) will far outweigh that.

[mmmatt]

http://www.boommag.ca/images/logo.jpg

It is a new alternative magazine that will compete with Here`s (Irvings)

Sweet! Anything to help combat the biases in NB papers is very welcome. :D

[ErickMontreal]

Sweet! Anything to help combat the biases in NB papers is very welcome. :D

I second that :cheers:

[mmmatt]

::Flame Retardant::

nice picture of the Marriott taken today

http://www.branchdesign.com/monctonpixels/P1150277_flame_retardant.jpg

I'm guessing that stuff must be to keep in the heat so the workers are warm inside while working.

Photo credit: Brian Branch
http://www.monctonpixels.blogspot.com/

[ErickMontreal]

Cool pic thank you!

[ErickMontreal]

:: Boom Magazine ::
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2242/2104078015_9d787cfc86_o.jpg

A part of the brand new alternative magazine.

[mylesmalley]

NB News won't take kindly to this...

[ErickMontreal]

NB News won't take kindly to this...

Agree, Irving will try to get them down with ridiculous advertising prices... Its always the same story.

I strongly beleive NB deceives more than this kind of monopoly, we`re not in Moscow, we are in Canada.

[mylesmalley]

Agree, Irving will try to get them down with ridiculous advertising prices... Its always the same story.

I strongly beleive NB deceives more than this kind of monopoly, we`re not in Moscow, we are in Canada.


Shhhh... that's dangerous talk.

[ErickMontreal]

Shhhh... that's dangerous talk.

Maybe, anyway, Its just based on my own opinion.

[ErickMontreal]

Mapleton gets more money
Province adds another $2 million to investment in the main gateway to Metro Moncton

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=61993&size=500x0
The City of Moncton will be moving ahead with work on Mapleton Road from Trinity to Highway 2, the Trans-Canada Highway next year and now they will have another $2 million for the project overall coming from the New Brunswick government

By Brent Mazerolle
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Wednesday December 12th, 2007
Appeared on page A4

Moncton Mayor Lorne Mitton says he doesn't believe in going to Fredericton to beg.

That's why on his half-dozen visits to the capital in search of funding for Mapleton Road upgrades, he's focused on making a business case for provincial government investment instead.

To do that, Mitton carries Exhibit A, an aerial photo showing all the commercial development already in the Mapleton Road area, complete with dollar figures of how much these enterprises pay in property tax.

The map is chock full of numbers that are themselves chock full of commas. If that's not impressive enough, the City of Moncton will soon be able to produce a new photo with a pair of massive new developments on the horizon, the horizon in this case being just east of Mapleton Road, where Ashford Properties and Halifax's McCrea brothers are preparing to build large scale retail developments.

With all that in the works, it seems reasonable the province would add an extra $2 million to the fund which will pave the way for this growing economic engine.

Mayor Mitton confirmed that was indeed the case yesterday, responding to a report in yesterday's Times & Transcript suggesting the provincial Department of Transportation had allotted more money to upgrading the gateway to Moncton in its 2008-2009 budget. The province had already pledged $3 million towards the road project in April and agreed then to assume the full cost of widening its bridge over Wheeler Boulevard to six lanes.

"I now have $8 million (from the province) counting the bridge, five from Plaza to the Trans-Canada Highway and $3 million for the bridge," Mitton said.

He added the provincial government is also coming through with the first portion of the money in 2008, meaning they will provide $1.7 million next year instead of the originally planned $1 million. That contribution will be repeated in the next two years.

"This is really good," he said. "I thought they'd put most of it on the tail end."

Mitton said he was pleased to see the progress on Mapleton, which he identified as one of his top priorities when he ran for mayor in 2004. "It is now and it will become moreso the primary entrance way into Moncton."

Apart from the sound business case for the province helping to prepare the area for more development, Mitton said the efforts of Moncton North MLA and provincial health minister Michael Murphy made a huge difference in securing the funds.

The next step is to get to work.

"We've got a lot of design work to do and land to buy," Mitton said. "We're hoping to get it done in two years but it might (take a bit longer). We'll work from Trinity to Trans Canada starting next year."
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Moncton Hospital leads nation again
The Moncton Hospital, Sackville Memorial Hospital have lowest mortality ratios of health centres studied from across the country

Times & Transcript Staff
Published Wednesday December 12th, 2007
Appeared on page A10

The Moncton Hospital leads the nation with the lowest rating of patient mortality, a new study shows.

The hospital standardized mortality ratio was studied in Regional Health Authorities and at acute care hospitals across Canada, except Quebec.

HSMR compares the actual number of deaths in a hospital or region with the average Canadian experience after adjusting for factors that affect in-hospital mortality such as age, sex, diagnoses and admission status of patients.

The Canadian average is set at 100, with hospitals or RHAs scoring above 100 having more deaths than average and those scoring lower than 100 having fewer.

The South-East Regional Health Authority heard at their monthly meeting last night that the results for The Moncton Hospital and Sackville Memorial Hospital were, for the last three years, 55, 65 and 59 respectively, the lowest in the study.

"We're very pleased with these results," said Nancy Roberts, vice-president of planning and professional services for SERHA.

"That recognizes some of the initiatives we've been involved with for many years ... and the strong culture of quality improvement here. We're certainly very pleased that all of our efforts over the years have yielded these results."

Authority CEO and president Donn Peters attributed the stellar numbers to staff who always strive to improve all areas of hospital care and are never complacent when success shines its light on their efforts.

Hospitals in the United Kingdom and the United States have been using HSMR results to track in-hospital mortality and to target areas for improvement for a number of years. This is the first time the same measuring tape has been put to hospitals in Canada. The data was compiled by the Canadian Institute for Health Information which collects and analyzes information on health and health care in Canada and makes it publicly available.

The HSMR measure focuses on 65 diagnosis groups that account for 80 per cent of in-hospital deaths, excluding palliative care. The five diagnoses that had the highest numbers of deaths were heart attack, heart failure, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and septicemia.

Peters noted the ratio is all the more impressive at SERHA because it is both an acute care hospital and a regional trauma centre, meaning the exceptional number was achieved despite the fact The Moncton Hospital receives some of the sickest patients in the province.

[gehrhardt]

I know it's a few posts late, but back to Spielo... They moved their manufacturing facility from Quebec into the Moncton headquarters over the summer. That brought quite a few new jobs to Moncton. It's cheaper for Spielo/GTech and it's great for Moncton. I'm sure there's over 400 employees working there now.

[JasonL-Moncton]

I know it's a few posts late, but back to Spielo... They moved their manufacturing facility from Quebec into the Moncton headquarters over the summer. That brought quite a few new jobs to Moncton. It's cheaper for Spielo/GTech and it's great for Moncton. I'm sure there's over 400 employees working there now.

Don't forget that IGT Canada (former Hi-Tech Gaming) is located in the Moncton Industrial Park on Henri-Dunant St. IGT is based out of Las Vegas and is one of the largest game manufacturers in the world. Hi-Tech was the largest provider in Canada and was started in Moncton, they then were bought by their largest supplier (IGT) and became IGT Canada, they have 5 offices across Canada and the HQ is in Moncton.

http://www.igt.com/Home/default.asp?pid=1&bhcp=1

Jason

[JasonL-Moncton]

Keith Urban to play Halifax Aug. 30 /2008 on the commons...come on Moncton...get something big for Magnetic Hill!

http://www.cbc.ca/cp/Atlantic/071211/t121131A.html

[ErickMontreal]

Those shots are really amateur-ish

Some projects.

:: 777 Main Street ::
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2395/2105758483_ee42152991_b.jpg

:: Hampton Inn ::

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2340/2105790799_819d6da18f_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2241/2105783737_befff0b887_b.jpg

:: Moncton BMW ::

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2159/2106555160_b7eeb46799_b.jpg

:: Hotel 6 ::

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2180/2106575958_eb1c54b789_b.jpg

More to come... better I wish .

[mmmatt]

Those shots are awesome man! :D

Glad you put the one of 777...I'm really impressed by the look...I liked the building before, now I love it :)

Hampton Inn is coming along great, and BMW is HUGE! I didnt think it was that big.

[mylesmalley]

How big/tall will the Hampton Inn be?

[mmmatt]

Keith Urban to play Halifax Aug. 30 /2008 on the commons...come on Moncton...get something big for Magnetic Hill!

http://www.cbc.ca/cp/Atlantic/071211/t121131A.html

It will come in due time...hopefully not country again though, two years is enough...we need to get a good ROCK band out there this year!!! :cheers:

[mmmatt]

How big/tall will the Hampton Inn be?

4 stories Im guessing...not sure though, that just seems to be the norm.

[mylesmalley]

Ahh, cool. Well, better than nothing. It surprises me just how tall 777 Main is. I just wish they'd put something on that 8 story solid brick wall.

[mmmatt]

Moncton Hospital leads nation again
The Moncton Hospital, Sackville Memorial Hospital have lowest mortality ratios of health centres studied from across the country


Thats awesome!

[mmmatt]

Ahh, cool. Well, better than nothing. It surprises me just how tall 777 Main is. I just wish they'd put something on that 8 story solid brick wall.

9* haha...but yes, thats what I was hoping they would do, but it looks awesome from 3 angles now at least! :tup:

[mylesmalley]

9* haha...but yes, thats what I was hoping they would do, but it looks awesome from 3 angles now at least! :tup:

Sigh... as a business student, I can think of a thousand and one things to do with a giant wall like that. Seems like such a waste. Hell, even a nice mural would be good.

[mmmatt]

Sigh... as a business student, I can think of a thousand and one things to do with a giant wall like that. Seems like such a waste. Hell, even a nice mural would be good.

Yeah! A nice mural would do great there...heck even Super Store knows a big empty wall is prime space for a mural...why cant we do the same thing?!

[ErickMontreal]

dp

[JasonL-Moncton]

...and BMW is HUGE! I didnt think it was that big.


Where is BMW going? I didn't hear about a beemer dealer coming?

[mylesmalley]

It's right near the airport, along route 15.

[JasonL-Moncton]

It's right near the airport, along route 15.

I thought that that was Mazda!? Isn't Mazda moving from Morton Ave. out to there?

[mylesmalley]

I think they both are, actually. I drove by there this afternoon, and it appears there are two construction sites.

[mmmatt]

I think they both are, actually. I drove by there this afternoon, and it appears there are two construction sites.

Really? thats cool...I didnt even know Mazda was moving. Seems like every dealership in Moncton is either renovating or building new lately. :)

[JasonL-Moncton]

I suspect that when Mazda is gone on Morton you will see the Chrysler dealer beside it expand and take over their space.

[mmmatt]

Despite temptations to head south, retailers say their customers are remaining loyal

By Dwayne Tingley
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page A1

Canada's loonie may be swimming in some high water these days, but retailers in southeastern new Brunswick have ducked the trend of many shoppers to fly south this Christmas season.

The Canadian and American dollars are on par, but merchants have been hyping the importance of shopping at home. Their message has made an impact.

Heather Gilbert-Patterson, manager of the Crofter Gifts and Flower Shop on Bridge Street in Sackville, said yesterday her customers are proud to buy locally.

"They take great delight in telling me about their shopping habits," Gilbert-Patterson said.

"They tell me that they come to our shop first then look around Sackville and if they can't find what they are looking for, they move on somewhere else.

"They don't want to go out of the province or to the States unless they are looking for a unique gift."

Gilbert-Patterson has operated the Crofter for nine years, but the store has been a fixture in downtown Sackville for more than 40. This year. home decor items are the big sellers.

"Christmas ornaments are always popular, but people are looking for things to place in their homes," she said. "We're selling more pottery now. It's all Canadian and most of it is from the Maritimes. As merchants, we like to shop at home, too."

Mike Carbyn, a retired social worker who runs his own antique shop on High Street in Moncton, has also seen an increase in business this Christmas.

"People might talk about going south to do some shopping, but your long-time customers stay with you," Carbyn said.

"Repeat customers are the bread and butter of the retail industry. When it's all said and done, most customers want to support their neighbours, the people they've been dealing with for years and years."

The antique business is enjoying its best Christmas season in three years, despite the low American dollar.

"What's hot this year? Antique toys. The wind-up toys from the 1920s and '30s are huge sellers and so is lighting from the '20s. Any sort of collectable is moving well at this time of year.

"There are also a lot of people refurbishing their homes with older lighting fixtures. That's the trend this year."

At Bungay's Bike and Snowboard Shop on Mountain Road in Moncton, business is booming.

"We're swamped," said Reg Bungay, who has run the store for 35 years. "We're going crazy in here.

"We had to adjust our prices to compensate for the low American dollar but, since then, it's been crazy. We can't keep the snowboards in stock. So far this season, we've sold 400 snowboards and it's not enough. We've got to get more in stock."

Bungay said shoppers should realize some of the perils of buying products in the United States.

"If," he explained, "you buy in the States, (the product) may not have a warranty. If you need it fixed and you buy here, bring it back here. It sure beats trying to ship the product back and forth from the States and then there's no guarantee it is going to be under warranty."

Consumers are also buying bicycles this Christmas. Bungay's has sold more than 100 bikes this season, that's a slight increase over last year.

"I hope everyone can do all of their shopping near home this year," Bungay said.

[mmmatt]

Province to turn to public-private partnership for new north-end school; cash for Moncton High renovations also reportedly in budget

By Aloma Jardine
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page A1

Metro Moncton schools did not fare so well in last year's capital budget, but Education Minister Kelly Lamrock is making up for it this year.

In an interview with the Times & Transcript yesterday, Lamrock says he'll be announcing two public-private partnership projects for the region during his budget estimates today -- one of them for the construction of the long-awaited north-end school.

The new school is desperately needed to relieve overcrowding at existing schools, in particular Evergreen Park.

Lamrock says moving to public-private partnerships is the best way for the province to get needed infrastructure in place quickly.

He says areas like Moncton's north end have grown faster than predicted and if the province tried to tackle the infrastructure needs that has created through traditional funding methods, it wouldn't be able to keep up.

"That is why we're looking at P3s," he says. "We're actually getting schools built, and it allows us to do it in a more affordable way."

It also looks like there might be money in the budget to begin extensive renovations at Moncton High School.

Moncton East MLA Chris Collins says he will be ecstatic if the funding comes through.

"I'm hoping it is there. I'm getting some positive vibes on it," he says.

Lamrock isn't dropping any hints about the fate of Moncton High, saying only that he is fully aware of the situation at the school.

"Chris Collins has been awfully aggressive in dragging me down there," he says, laughing.

Collins says he received a huge stack of information the day before his election detailing the conditions at the school: poor ventilation and air quality, a leaky roof, mold issues, problems with the heating system, no sprinklers, unsanitary washrooms, drinking fountains that don't work, an electrical system that is woefully outdated.

"I was appalled," he says. "I've had the minister of education there twice, he shares my concerns, and I have worked very hard with my colleagues in the House and my cabinet colleagues to try to raise this as an issue."

Although there was some discussion around starting over with a new building because of the extent and cost of the needed repairs, Collins says he favours keeping the current building.

"It is a very historic building, an important piece of infrastructure in the downtown core of Moncton," he says. "I think it will pretty much need to be gutted and rebuilt within that framework, but it is a beautiful building and it is so worth saving."

If funding does come through, it will likely be as phase one of a multi-year project as renovations are expected to cost in the realm of $10 million.

"I can't ask for it to be built in one year," Collins says. "But to get the ball rolling would be -- I will be jumping up and down on the right hand side of the House."

Lamrock remained close-lipped on where the new north-end school will be built, explaining the province had been close to closing a deal, but it fell through. He says they have found another location and are in the process of negotiations, but a deal has not yet been finalized and he won't make the announcement until it has been.

Neither would he reveal what the second public-private partnership project for the region is, though he did say it involves an English-language school.

Riverview needs a new K-8 school, but that project is likely a few years down the road.

Birchmount School also needs extensive renovations, but Lamrock says the private-public partnership model works best for new schools.

"We've not found a way for it to work for renovations," he says. "We really want to look at this for new schools. We have lots of aging infrastructure."

A more likely possibility is a replacement for Eleanor W. Graham Middle School in Richibucto, a project that also got bumped from the capital budget last year.

While the news for Metro Moncton's English-language schools seems bright, Lamrock was less encouraging about a request for an expansion of École Sainte-Thérèse in Dieppe to accommodate the growing elementary school population.

"In the long term we certainly have to do that but, in many ways, I think we would strain the capacity given how big the infrastructure needs are province-wide," he says.

"It wasn't that long ago that schools were built in Dieppe, then we had problems in Moncton, and now we've outgrown schools in Dieppe, but we have to balance that with communities that have been waiting eight or nine years."

[mmmatt]

Moncton airport CEO wonders who will foot bill for changes to runway safety areas

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=62947&size=300x0
The Greater Moncton International Airport, with a view of both runways looking southeast from over Highway 15.

By Eric Lewis
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page A4

Possible changes to Canadian airport runways in the future could prove "very costly" for the Greater Moncton International Airport if they were to come into effect, says airport president and CEO Rob Robichaud.

In a report released Wednesday, the Transportation Safety Board made several recommendations to Transport Canada and the world's regulatory bodies to improve airplane landing safety. The report comes in the aftermath of Air France Flight 358 skidding off a runway at Toronto's Pearson International Airport on Aug. 2, 2005, during torrential rain.

Remarkably, no one was hurt in the crash, but the safety board studied the case to determine what caused the crash so it could make recommendations that might keep a similar accident from happening again.

One of the key recommendations was for Transport Canada to require 300-metre runway end safety areas (RESAs) instead of the current 90-metre RESAs on all Code 4 runways (1,800 metres and longer). An alternative would be to install an engineering material arresting system (EMAS), a thick foam that can slow aircraft when it reaches the end of the runway, or perhaps simply extending the runways.

Both of GMIA's two runways are Code 4 runways, the shorter of the two being 1,874 metres, so they would be affected by these potential changes.Transport Minister Lawrence Cannon said in a press release that Transport Canada was in the process of reviewing the report, but didn't say if or when any of the recommendations would be put into effect.

If 300-metre safety zones do become a requirement for Canadian airports, it would present a few problems for the Greater Moncton International Airport (GMIA), Robichaud said yesterday.

"It could have a severe impact on one of our runways because we really don't have the ability to put a 300-metre RESA in place because of the geography, and the closeness of Champlain (Street) to runway 06."

Runway 06/24 runs to the northeast, parallel to the nearby Veterans Highway. One end of the runway is only a short distance from Champlain Street, with a gully also separating the two.

"You couldn't put 300 metres of RESA on there," Robichaud continues. "So we would probably end up having to shorten the runway, which would not be necessarily a good thing, or even more expensive than that would be to extend it out to the other end to make up. But either one, whatever decision the is at the end of the day, it's going to be very costly. It'll be in the millions of dollars."

Robichaud then poses the question -- who will pay for these changes if the recommendations are adopted?

"At small airports, we can't afford that kind of unexpected type of capital investment."

If the change does come into effect, it will impact all four runway "buttons", the ends of each of the two runways at GMIA.

"That's the type of unexpected capital cost in my mind that if the government is going to impose this on us, then they should be willing to step to the plate and pay for it."

Transport Canada spokeperson Lucie Vignola said yesterday there will indeed be change coming in the future to improve safety, but as for what they will be and who will pay for them, "That's the type of detail that we will be consulting with industry on.

"Are we simply extending the runways? Are we looking at alternate means? And what are the costs of all that and the safety benefits of all that? That's something that we'll be doing in the coming year."

GMIA's Robichaud says he doesn't believe the other recommendations put forth by the Transportation Safety Board will likely affect the Moncton airport.

[mmmatt]

Members-only retail outlet is now open on Mountain Road

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=62943&size=300x0

By Yvon Gauvin
Times & Transcript staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page C2

Home building, renovation and furniture shopping just got a whole lot more interesting.

DirectBuy, the members-only manufacturer-direct retail enterprise launched in the United States three decades ago, has opened its first New Brunswick full-service design showroom at 950 Mountain Rd, Moncton.

The 10,335-square-foot showroom and adjacent warehouse offers members access to thousands of brand-name products from 500 manufacturers and suppliers at their prices.

Many homeowners have seen the television advertisement where couples said they bought home renovation products from DirectBuy and saved big by buying direct from the manufacturer. That's what the franchise outlet is offering New Brunswickers, said the company.

Consumers save the cost of the retail store mark-up in exchange for a membership fee.

The company based in Merrillville, Ind., claims potential savings as high as 50 per cent off the retail price of products, thanks to its extensive manufacturer access, with 700 manufacturers in the U.S. and 500 in Canada on board. The company claims 140 centres across North America and still growing.

The membership fee to join the company is discussed only with the prospective member.

The owner-operators of the Moncton franchise are Cindy Law and Lynn Berry.

"Consumers in the area will be blown away by the wide array of merchandise and significant savings that we offer," said Berry. "Members will enjoy personalized service as they navigate through our extensive selection of brand-name, top-of-the-line merchandise."

The centre offers virtually everything for and around the home such as furnishings, home improvement, flooring, entertainment and outdoor products, accessories and much more as well as delivery and installation services.

"DirectBuy has offered its members unmatched savings, selection and service for the past 35 years, and we are excited to bring that tradition to our New Brunswick location," said Bart Fesperman, vice-president of sales and marketing for DirectBuy. "We offer the top home furnishings and home improvement brands at discounted prices that consumers will not find anywhere else. We're confident that families in the area will quickly benefit from this exciting concept."

To further assist with home renovations, the centre provides access to interior designers and product specialists in home furnishings, home improvement, flooring, accessories, and entertainment/outdoor, as well as the designs for home decor of Christopher Lowell.

Anyone interested in joining is encouraged to call 506-384-3009 to discuss membership, get a free insider's guide and set up an appointment to attend an open house at the centre.

There are existing outlets in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and in British Columbia as well as in most U.S. states.

Quick facts

* The company was founded in 1971 with its head office in Merrillville, Ind.

* There are currently 140 centres across North America and Moncton is first New Brunswick site.

* The store offers thousands of brand-name items at manufacturer prices; access to 700 manufacturers in U.S.; 500 in Canada; delivery and installation services; and home decor designs and renovation tips.

* There is a membership fee to join and there is 24- hour access through its website.

[mmmatt]

Moncton's vacancy rates reported at 4.3 per cent

Times & Transcript staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page C2

The demand for rental units seems to have kept pace with new housing construction in most major New Brunswick urban centres, says a rental market survey released yesterday by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

"Stable rental unit demand during the past year has led to declining vacancy rates" in six of seven urban centres in the province, said Claude Gautreau, senior market analyst with CMHC in New Brunswick. The exception was Fredericton where the vacancy rate increased by 1.7 per cent.

The vacancy rate in Moncton was reported at 4.3 per cent, down half of a percentage point for the year, and Saint John at 5.2 per cent.

Two-bedroom units make up more than half of the rental units in the province's three major cities.

The vacancy rate also declined in four smaller centres with the lowest rate in Miramichi at 1.2 per cent vacancy and the highest in Edmundston at 8.2 per cent.

The largest year-over-year decline was in Campbellton where the vacancy rate dropped 4.7 percentage points to settle at 4.9 per cent vacancy.

The overall vacancy rate for the province for the year dropped from 6.7 to 6.1 per cent.

[mmmatt]

So far this year, $128M worth of building permits have been issued in Moncton

Times & Transcript staff
Published Friday December 14th, 2007
Appeared on page C2

Strong investor confidence in Moncton's economic potential is helping fuel the continued growth in residential and commercial/industrial construction projects for the city.

Last month, the city issued 88 building permits for $14,150,000 worth of construction, bringing the total to date this year to 1,133 permits worth $128,789,000, just a little over eight per cent below last year's record $140,172,000 in construction including expansion of The Moncton Hospital, according to figures released yesterday by the City of Moncton Building Department.

Residential permit values rose by 6.4 per cent last month over November 2006.

"The November 2007 building permits indicates the housing market continues to grow in the City of Moncton, a sign of buyer confidence in the economy. " said Kevin Silliker, Business Development Officer with the city.

"Commercial and industrial projects have increased in value by 22.5 per cent over last year showing continued strong investment from the private sector. Other projects are moving forward so it's expected our builders and developers will continue to put up growth numbers," he added.

Of the 88 permits issued last month, 31 were for commercial and industrial construction worth $7,696,000, bringing the year-to-date estimated worth at $56,466,000.

Last year's total for the same time period was $46,091,000 in construction.

Major projects granted permits last month include $1,500,000 in interior work at the Keg Restaurant and Bar, Marriott Residence Inn; a 26,000 square foot greenhouse valued at $1,860,000 at 50 Lewisville Rd.; a warehouse valued at $1,092,500 for Bird Holdings Ltd., 50 MacNaughton Ave., and S5,000 in interior renovations by G.W.R. Holdings and Lawton's at 40 Mapleton Rd.

Quick facts

Following are value figures for construction permits issued by the City of Moncton. The first total represents November 2007 figures followed by November 2006 totals and percentage of change, and year-to-date for 2007 with comparison to 2006 building permits and difference in percentage:

Residential:

November: total value $4,593,000 compared to $4,316,000, up 6.4 per cent; Year-to-date: $59,762,000 compared to $55,356,000 last year, up 8 per cent;

Institutional and Government:

November: $1,861,000 compared to $29,669,000, no percentage listed; Year-to-date: $12,561,000 compared to $38,725,000, a drop of 67.6 per cent;

Commercial and industrial:

November: $7,696,000 compared to $1,851,000, an increase of 315.8 per cent; Year-to-date: $56,466,000 compared to $46,091,000, an increase of 22.5 per cent;

All construction:

November: $14,150,000 compared to $35,836,000, a drop of 60.5 percent;

Year-to-date: $128,789,000 compared to $140,172,000, a drop of 8.1 per cent.

[mylesmalley]

I think the important thing to take from these numbers is the impact the hospital expansion had. When you look at the numbers excluding that one large project, construction this year is quite a bit higher than last year.

[mmmatt]

I think the important thing to take from these numbers is the impact the hospital expansion had. When you look at the numbers excluding that one large project, construction this year is quite a bit higher than last year.

exactly right...Commercial construction is up from last year in a big way and so is residential...the only thing down is government...and next year that number will most likely be back up with major government projects like a new school in the north end, the justice center should be starting, as well as the stadium should be starting, the government also mentioned $1 million+ for each of the Moncton area hospitals as well.

[mylesmalley]

You always have to dig a little into statistics like that. A newspaper like the Transcript will put a spin on anything they can get there hands on. You'd think stats were pretty straightforward, but you can make any number say just about anything with a bit of effort

Also, good news about the new school. I wonder where they'll put it.

[mmmatt]

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f232/stu_pendousmat/newer%20moncton%202/Untitled-2-1.jpg
credit: copanational.org

If all goes as planned we could see some major changes in this area in the near future :)

Man I miss the summer...

[mmmatt]

You always have to dig a little into statistics like that. A newspaper like the Transcript will put a spin on anything they can get there hands on. You'd think stats were pretty straightforward, but you can make any number say just about anything with a bit of effort

Also, good news about the new school. I wonder where they'll put it.

Very true...you see that everyday when some stats come out...the TJ will spin it to sound like SJ is doing so well while Moncton is sucking ass, meanwhile in the T&T the opposite happens...

As far as the school I have no idea...I was looking at google maps to see, and the majority of free space visible on the map nesr that area is now new neighborhoods (pretty amazing the difference between 2005 and now)...

[mmmatt]

http://i48.photobucket.com/albums/f232/stu_pendousmat/newer%20moncton%202/monctonskylinedesignborder.png

a little design I made while bored, enjoy! :)

[mmmatt]

Moncton High makeover begins

$500K for design work of school upgrade in N.B. budget; new north-end Moncton school to hold 650 students

By Aloma Jardine
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Saturday December 15th, 2007
Appeared on page A1

A new school for the north end and long-overdue repairs at Moncton High School were the two main plums for Metro Moncton in the 2008-2009 capital budget.

Education Minister Kelly Lamrock released details of his $41.6-million budget during estimates yesterday.

A new K-8 school in the north end, with the capacity to hold 650 students, will be built through a public-private partnership.

Lamrock says no timelines for construction have yet been established.

He says they are in the process of putting together the specs they want for the school so they can send the project out to tender.

"We are going to push it as fast as possible," he says. "We are a little into a new area. It depends on how quickly the tendering process goes, how quickly we get a satisfactory bid."

As much as the north end school has been a priority one project in District 2 for years, Lamrock says one of the projects he was happiest to announce yesterday was the beginning of a desperately needed large-scale renovation of Moncton High School.

The province is budgeting $500,000 this year for design work for the project, which is expected to cost $10 million to $12 million.

"It was a personal priority for me. Much like (the school) in Drummond, it is really to the point where it is sending the wrong message for what we want for our kids," Lamrock says.

Moncton High School principal Trent Munn says his staff was thrilled with the news.

"It certainly gives us new life, new energy," he says. "We've had a really good fall and certainly for our parents and community members and students and staff, we will have a clean, well-ventilated building with modern facilities inside while we keep that beautiful structure on the outside."

Lamrock says this is the first year of a multi-year plan for the school that he envisions could take up to five years.

"It is a big project so we can do it piece by piece and keep the school open while we renovate," he says.

With some speculation floating about that the province might be better off abandoning the school and building a new one elsewhere, Lamrock says he wanted to get the project started and leave no doubt of their intention to keep the historic property.

He says he wasn't convinced it would be any cheaper to build a new school, and finances aside, parents, teachers, students, and the community at large all expressed a desire to keep the current building.

Lamrock says one of the criteria he'll be looking at in the tenders for the new north end school is how quickly the contractor can deliver the school.

John Betts, the Tory MLA for Moncton Crescent, who has been a strong advocate for the new school, says the sooner the better.

"It has to happen and we can't wait until 2010 to do it," he says. "It is not a political thing, it is a physical reality. There are 300 more students at that school (Evergreen Park) than they can handle and there are new families looking to buy in that area who are told they can't go to that school so they go elsewhere and students on the other side of Mountain Road who are bused to Queen Elizabeth."

The previous government budgeted $700,000 toward site selection and design of the new school two years ago, with the intention of opening the school in September 2008, but the Liberal government spent the money on other projects and there was no cash in last year's budget for the project.

When the project failed to move forward last year, District 2 superintendent Karen Branscombe said the district, which administers English-language schools in southeastern New Brunswick, would likely have to move ahead with boundary changes, though it had promised parents to keep the status quo until a new school was in place.

The crowding issues were becoming too severe to leave things as they were any longer.

Yesterday's announcement that a school is definitely on the way may change that.

"We certainly will have to have more discussion with the department in terms of time frames," she says. "We need to know how far away this school really is."

But she says they likely will try to make do for a little while longer.

"We won't want to make any significant boundary changes until we open the school," she says.

Branscombe says she is glad to see the school will be a K-8 as it gives the district more flexibility in planning boundaries.

She says a 650-seat school is also likely big enough to accommodate all of their space issues.

Evergreen Park School was full the day it opened, and an addition had to be built, which was also quickly flooded with new students in the growing neighbourhood.

Lamrock says they'll make sure that doesn't happen with this school. He says a school built for 650 will cover the needs as things stand right now, "but before the shovel hits the ground, we'll do a final check," he says. "You don't want to be back five years later saying another school is a priority."

Lamrock says the school will be built with the province's new educational standards in mind. A visit to schools in Finland, which habitually scores far above other countries in every subject area on international tests, impressed upon him the need to design schools to reflect how you want teaching to be done.

"In Finland there are classrooms with walls where you can see into the hallways and there are books and computers and working tables there," he says.

"Their schools look like you would do the kind of teaching there that would give you better reading and writing scores."

Lamrock also announced a new middle school for 300 students will be built in Rexton to replace Eleanor W. Graham Middle School in Richibucto using the public-private partnership model.

Lamrock says there are several advantages to using this system to build new schools.

"One is you can start projects more quickly," he says, explaining the government doesn't need to come up with so much money in a single year.

It also allows the government to predict costs and spread them over 20 years and it transfers the risk involved in building and owning a school over to the private sector.

"If the experience is bad, we won't see as many of them, but we're going into it with the hope it will work and if it does we will see more of them," he says.

The province already has two schools in the province that were built using public private partnerships: Leo Hayes High School in Fredericton, and Evergreen Park School.

"So far it has been a successful partnership," Branscombe says. "We would look forward to the same happening with the new school as well."

Budget facts

District 1 - $3.1 million

* $2.4 million for an industrial arts shop at Ecole Sainte-Anne

* $300,000 for exterior windows at Ecole Amirault

* $100,000 for the heating system at Ecole Abbey-Landry

* $110,000 for repairs to the roof at Ecole Mathieu-Martin

* $23,000 for interior walls at Ecole Saint-Henri

* $125,000 for exterior windows at Ecole Sainte-Thérèse

* $50,000 for site improvements at Ecole Le Mascaret

* $30,000 for lockers at Ecole Arc-enciel

District 2 - $1.7 million plus north end school

* Construction of a new school in the north end through a public private partnership (cost yet to be determined)

* $500,000 for planning and design of renovations at Moncton High School

* $350,000 for a new drop off zone and upgrades at West Riverview School

* $385,000 for work exterior walls and new windows at Frank L. Bowser School

* $120,000 for work on exterior walls at Hillcrest School

* $350,000 for work on exterior walls and new windows at Hillsborough Elementary

* $42,000 for fire protection work at various schools

Millions in roadwork planned for 2008

Ryan, Mapleton Roads to receive plenty of work, Botsford Street will be widened to relieve rush-hour traffic

By Brent Mazerolle
Times & Transcript Staff Published Saturday December 15th, 2007
Appeared on page A4


With the City of Moncton's 2008 Capital Works Budget passed in principle, it's time to look at what road projects are being contemplated for the coming year.

Passed or not, readers should be aware unanticipated cost overruns with a major project can end up delaying any of these.

A good example is the long-awaited connection of Russ Howard Drive to Killam Drive. Originally slated to be done by now and the subject of public meetings in 2006, the project has now been pushed back to 2012 because money had to be freed up for the more critical Assomption Boulevard and Mapleton Road projects.

With that proviso in mind, here's a peek at where you'll find the flag people come spring.

As reported in the Times & Transcript earlier this week, Mapleton Road work will begin in 2008, with crews starting at Highway 2, the Trans-Canada Highway, and going as close to Trinity Drive as the first pot of money will take them.

City engineer Alcide Richard told council Thursday he hoped the work would end somewhere between Frampton Lane and Trinity.

In a coup for which Moncton mayor Lorne Mitton and Moncton North MLA Mike Murphy are being credited, the city has secured provincial funding of 80 per cent for eligible expenses on the project, rather than the usual 50 per cent on designated highway work. Eligible expenses, simplified somewhat, are those most directly connected to road building.

They don't include extras like land acquisitions, sidewalks, and traffic lights. The city has $5.5 million tucked away to get Mapleton going.

In other designated highway work, $300,000 is inked for widening and storm sewer work on Gorge Road from Atlantic Baptist University to Mountainwood subdivision. There's another $1.2 million on the horizon for Gorge Road, currently slotted for 2010.

Ryan Road will again be a hub of activity in 2008. There's $450,000 set aside for storm sewer work from Penrose to Horsman and road reconstruction from Hildegard to Horsman worth $950,000. A further $300,000 has been set aside for land acquisition to upgrade the intersection at Ryan and Horsman, which should see a realignment the following year.

Botsford Street between Wheeler Boulevard and Mountain Road will be widened, relieving rush hour congestion in the area and helping to make room for the fire trucks exiting the new fire station under construction at the junction of Botsford and King Street. The city has set aside $1.42 million for that project.

Royal Oaks Boulevard will be completed at a cost of $1.2 million, a project approved by city council in October.

St. George Boulevard has a lot of work on the way. A $100,000 sidewalk is planned for the boulevard from MacNaughton High School to Edinburgh Drive. Street resurfacing is planned from Greenwood to Milner, while St. George Street will see resurfacing from Vaughan Harvey to High Street. The combined cost is estimated at $525,000.

A similar amount has been earmarked to resurface Mountain Road from North Street to Connaught Avenue and $110,000 is in the budget to do the same to the full length of Brandon Street.

Residents of Rural Estates will be happy to hear $350,000 is in the 2008 budget for temporary repair of roads in the subdivision. The developer will pay back $180,000 of that to the city. Similarly, $644,000 worth of work is planned for Northwood Drive where the Hampton Inn is being built but the city is paying for it with the $644,000 it got for selling the land for the hotel.

Lastly, there are also varying amounts of money set aside for resurfacing projects on Douglas, High, Leslie, Lynwood, Maplehurst and Reilly.

[mmmatt]

New Sobeys anchors downtown retail hub

Supermarket signals first wave of big growth predicted all along Vaughan Harvey Boulevard

http://harvest.canadaeast.com/image.php?id=63629&size=300x0

By ROD ALLEN
TIMES & TRANSCRIPT STAFF
Published Saturday December 15th, 2007
Appeared on page A1

Moncton's new Sobeys supermarket opens at noon tomorrow and is cause for celebration all by itself with three times the jobs and twice the shopping of the store it replaces.

But it is also the first major commercial development directly related to the completion of the new Gunningsville Bridge in 2006 and the link to Vaughan Harvey Boulevard this past summer.

The new store is thus a giant leap forward for growth in Moncton and Sobeys 'sister company' ECL Developments, owner of the new supermarket and neighbouring Highfield Square, is poised to be a big part of it.

Steve Cleroux, director of development for ECL, said in an interview yesterday the company has already fielded strong interest from a wave of retail companies about the adjoining 10,000 square feet of newly built and still empty retail space on the West Main Street-facing north flank of the new supermarket, which in turn faces the new Vaughan Harvey Extension to the bridge. The south flank is taken up by a new NB Liquor outlet scheduled to open in mid-February.

Cleroux said he can't identify those interests today but said the entire 10,000 square feet is available for lease and that negotiations are moving at a pace that suggests 'tenant build-outs' launching in the spring and grand openings in the summer of 2008.

Further, ECL also owns two open acres immediately south of the existing supermarket-NB Liquor-retail complex bordering the Via Rail tracks and that, too, is drawing strong interest.

Cleroux could not say what might happen in the existing Highfield Square mall facing West Main but the company's tentative plans for the mall's old Sobeys supermarket -- it closes tonight -- suggest plenty of action is foreseen for the mall as well. Cleroux said ECL will likely demolish the old store for extra parking space "although nothing is cast in stone.

"We're waiting to see what happens. Our leasing personnel are dealing with potential retailers as we speak (but) it's obvious that the (overall) site can't help but improve traffic flow and build customer base in the area."

All available land on either side of the Extension will be a tempting target for retailers, says Ben Champoux, director of business development for the City of Moncton.

And there's lots of it.

Champoux noted CN and other parties own some big chunks of undeveloped land surrounding Highfield Square and the tracks. Giffels, the developer of the Emmerson commercial park further north of Vaughan Harvey, is talking about expanding the park but also building new commercial space on land it controls across the Extension from the new supermarket.

Champoux foresees quick movement all the way up the boulevard from the bridge northward to the land adjacent the new YMCA building, but the overall story is much larger than that. The plan is to fully develop Vaughan Harvey as part of a commercial pathway for regional shoppers pouring into the city from New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and northern Nova Scotia with a widened Mapleton Road as the entry point.

That way, shoppers can touch first at commercial areas such as the now-developing north end of Mapleton, to Trinity Power Centre and Plaza Boulevard and down Mountain Road to Vaughan Harvey and ultimately the downtown.

"It's a great day," said Champoux of Sobey's grand opening, "because it's obviously not just new jobs and better shopping but a strong new argument to consider downtown as a place to live as well as work."

Champoux predicted that the residential development that has been building up gradually in the downtown over the past decade will pick up quickly.

Moncton Mayor Lorne Mitton, who will speak at the store's grand opening (unless a predicted snowstorm delays it) said he has taken great pleasure in watching the new store take shape so quickly.

The mayor didn't miss an opportunity to mention that rapid growth is the kind of thing a municipal government can spur with extra tax money available from recent increases in property assessments.

But the best thing about the supermarket for him personally, said the mayor, is that within his four-year mandate he has witnessed two huge projects built to anchor the ends of downtown Main -- the Marriott Hotel and Keg restaurant in the east and the $15-million Sobeys development in the west.

Mitton will speak at the opening ceremonies which run from noon to 6 p.m., said Sobeys representative Jill Thomas-Myrick.

Local entertainment includes a three-piece jazz band and a concert by the West End School Choir.

About 50 employees worked at the old store and the new one requires a staff of 157, said Thomas-Myrick.

The store is twice as large as the old one as well, and contains all the new features the companies has been adding to its new fleet of supermarkets such as a deli department featuring more than 140 varieties of cheese.

The new store also has a 'community room' where at least once a week a local chef will be brought in to give cooking demonstrations.

The room will be available to community groups when the store isn't using it. It can be booked through the store's manager.


Who's hiring in Metro in 2008?

Finance, real estate, insurance sectors expected to lead Metro Moncton, Atlantic job growth in first three months

By James Foster
Times & Transcript Staff
Published Saturday December 15th, 2007
Appeared on page D1

The finance, insurance and real estate sectors are the places to launch your new career in Atlantic Canada in early 2008, says the quarterly Manpower Employment Outlook Survey.

"Atlantic employers in the Finance, insurance and real estate sectors expect a robust hiring climate with an outlook of 31 per cent," the survey says. Other sectors project a strong job market in the region as well, Manpower says.

"Employers in the public administration sector anticipate a hopeful three months with a net employment outlook of 11 per cent."

The "outlook" is the difference between employers who are hiring minus those who are decreasing their work force. For example, the outlook for all industries in the Atlantic region is five per cent, which is a reflection of the 14 per cent of industries who say they will be hiring early in the new year, minus the nine per cent who say they'll be paring jobs from their payrolls.

But don't expect Metro employers to embark on a hiring blitz in January, February and March, the study says.

In Metro Moncton, the pace of hiring should dip in the first quarter of 2008, yet seven per cent of employers expect to hire during that period and 83 per cent intend to maintain their current staffing levels. However, says Mindy Stoltz of Manpower's Moncton office, 10 per cent expect to cut jobs.

"Moncton's first quarter net employment outlook of minus three per cent is a decrease from the same time last year when the outlook was four per cent," Stoltz said.

"It is also a decrease from the previous three months, when the net employment outlook was six per cent, indicating weak projections for the first quarter of 2008."

The prediction comes on the heels of news that New Brunswick led the nation in job creation last year and Metro Moncton powered much of that job growth.

Saint John shares a minus 3 per cent outlook with Moncton, while Fredericton's outlook is six per cent and Charlottetown's is 10 per cent.

Cape Breton registered the worst outlook in the Maritimes at minus 13 per cent while Halifax's 27 per cent topped regional statistics.

The Atlantic region's hiring outlook of five per cent tops Ontario's anticipated zero hiring growth but lags that of Quebec (eight per cent) and the west (22 per cent.)

Leading job creation sectors in 2008's first quarter, other than finance, real estate insurance and public administration include the wholesale and retail trade sector, with a net employment outlook in Atlantic Canada of nine per cent.

Transportation and public utilities boasts a six per cent outlook while education and manufacturing (non-durables) posted numbers of seven and six per cent, respectively.

Construction posted an outlook of minus 16 per cent, perhaps to be somewhat expected in mid-winter, while mining went from a plus 25 per cent in the fourth quarter of this year to a minus 25 per cent for the first quarter of 2008. For those looking elsewhere for work, nationally the sectors of construction, mining, wholesale and retail and manufacturing of non-durables showed the most glowing prospects for hiring in the first three months of the new year.

Hiring facts

* International employment-services firm Manpower Inc. surveys companies to estimate hiring trends for the coming quarter four times each year.

* They base their employment outlooks on responses by more than 1,700 public and private employers across the country and claims a margin of error of plus or minus 2.4 per cent, 19 times out of 20.

* The survey has been running for almost 50 years.

[mbeaumont]

Im just curious, is there any plans to eventually build an interchange on that one light on highway 15, I found it jam packed driving around Moncton, the lights aren't very efficient especially when coming out of the traffic circle

[mylesmalley]

Im just curious, is there any plans to eventually build an interchange on that one light on highway 15, I found it jam packed driving around Moncton, the lights aren't very efficient especially when coming out of the traffic circle

I've been saying that for years. It really surprises a lot of people when they come across a traffic light on a freeway.

I've given it a lot of thought. Really, it would be extremely expensive to fix that intersection. They'd end up closing two major streets for a long time, not to mention the need to reroute the trains along the main line. Plus, there's probably some rules about damaging the wetlands next to Wheeler. Finally, it's so close to the traffic circle, there might not be enough room for a proper interchange.

[kirjtc2]

There really isn't any room for a full interchange. I'm just eyeballing it from Google Earth right now, but it looks like the best you can do is a half-interchange for people coming to/from the traffic circle (and even then that may require tearing down a few buildings off Botsford). The other ramps could be built at Church St, but even then that would require redoing the University/Archibald interchange because of acceleration issues.

[mylesmalley]

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/7199/picture3ho0.png

I put this map together on Google Earth. It more or less shows what I was envisioning for that area to fix the intersection at Botsford and Wheeler. The red lines are Church and Botsford (which will become an overpass). Blue lines are Wheeler. Yellow lines are possible ramps to and off of Wheeler onto Church and Botsford.

This whole thing has keeping the railroad tracks in commission the whole time. There's a loop on to Botsford from Wheeler for access. There isn't enough room on the other side for a second loop because of Halls Creek, though I doubt it would get much use anyway. Church would get a standard diamond interchange (like Mountain Rd, Paul Street etc.), except one ramp would be missing. I did that to leave room for the loop onto Botsford as that would be more important.

[mylesmalley]

There really isn't any room for a full interchange. I'm just eyeballing it from Google Earth right now, but it looks like the best you can do is a half-interchange for people coming to/from the traffic circle (and even then that may require tearing down a few buildings off Botsford). The other ramps could be built at Church St, but even then that would require redoing the University/Archibald interchange because of acceleration issues.

You could reduce the acceleration issues by continuing the ramp from one street to the next instead of merging into Wheeler. However, there really isn't a lot of room there at all. I doubt you could put ramps onto Church street.

[mmmatt]

Good job Myles! Now all we need is 20 million dollars!! :P