Industrial waterfront development

Saint John has a great asset in its harbour front. The deep waters allow for shipping and receiving of good, an influx of cruise ship tourists, and of course great places to view and visit the water for residents.

The challenge of course is balancing these needs in such a way that we create the best outcomes for citizens, which is partially an economic consideration.

I read with some interest early this month that the Saint John Industrial Parks group was working on a plan to develop a barge facility in Lorneville (near the Spruce Lake Industrial Park’s developed area) to allow for the shipping of large fabricated metal components.  If such a facility were built, there is a chance that more people would be employed locally in making components for mining, processing and refining operations.

I came across another article that discusses an alternative for shipping large metal components. The Saint John Port Authority is suggesting that moving fabrication near the west side port’s existing piers would work better for shipping, as facilities are already in place.

The problem is, the port is located adjacent parts of the waterfront, where many have invested in developing a residential life style.  When another industrial user was preparing to move into the port lands, public concerns about power lines and appropriateness of land use slowed the development.

It is important to recognize that market participants (such as metal fabricators) will only do what makes sense for their businesses, and cannot be forced to work in a particular area without economic justification.

Ultimately, the decision on where to locate (or relocate) a fabrication industry and shipping facility, must be made carefully, and should respect the needs/desires of the community.