Port Saint John Marks Completion of $247 Million West Side Modernization Project
Transformative infrastructure investments already delivering prosperity on the waterfront
For Immediate Release – January 13, 2026
Saint John, NB | Today, Port Saint John, alongside government and private-sector partners, cut the ribbon on the $247 million West Side Modernization Project. The project, funded in partnership with the Government of Canada, Province of New Brunswick, and the Port, marks the end of a decades’ long journey to solidify Port Saint John’s position as a critical gateway for Canada’s supply chain.
The award-winning project, completed in December 2025, has driven the revitalization of the Port’s container sector through transformational infrastructure investments both on land and in-harbour. The west side container terminal, operated by DP World, now boasts an additional berth, a deepened and widened channel, a significantly increased laydown area, and enhanced intermodal capabilities. As a result, the Port’s on-dock container throughput capacity has more than quadrupled to over 800,000 TEUs.
Over the past decade, the project has attracted world-class partners who have invested over $750 million in enhanced equipment and rail upgrades. Thanks to the commitment of private sector partners like DP World, CPKC, CN, and NB Southern Railway, the project’s goal of growing the gateway has been realized, with throughput skyrocketing 400% to nearly 240,000 TEUs in 2025. With additional growth projected in 2026, the container sector is expected to contribute $125.7 million to the province’s GDP and create 928 jobs for New Brunswickers in the coming year.
Quotes
“We’re tremendously proud to be celebrating the completion of the $247 million West Side Modernization Project, the momentum it’s created for our gateway, and the hundreds of people working on our waterfront because of it.” — Craig Bell Estabrooks, President & CEO of Port Saint John
“Today’s milestone at Port Saint John reflects exactly what happens when governments and industry work together with a clear purpose: we build the infrastructure that strengthens our supply chains, supports good jobs, and positions Canadians for long-term success. This transformation on the west side is not just a local achievement — it’s a national asset
that will help move more Canadian goods to global markets, more efficiently and reliably. Our government is proud to have partnered in this project, and we will continue investing in the trade infrastructure that keeps Canada’s economy moving.” — The Honourable Steven Mackinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government
“I am proud to have helped deliver this historic funding for Port Saint John, one of the fastest-growing ports in the country. Our new government’s first federal budget builds on this by investing $5 billion in the new Trade Diversification Corridors Fund. As announced in November, this Fund will invest in projects like the proposed Saint John Trade Corridor project and others across the country to expand Canada’s reach and help double our overseas exports within a decade, unlocking $300 billion in new opportunities for our workers and businesses.” — The Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions and MP Saint John - Kennebecasis
“This milestone is a testament to what we can achieve when we invest in our people and our economy,” said Premier Susan Holt. “The West Side Modernization Project is driving economic growth, creating hundreds of good-paying jobs for New Brunswickers, and positioning our province as a key player and gateway in Canada’s supply chain. By supporting projects like this, we are building stronger communities and securing a brighter future for generations to come.” — The Honourable Susan Holt, Premier of the Province of New Brunswick
Port Saint John Media Contact:
Becky Knox, Strategic Communications Specialist | bknox@sjport.com | +1-506-608-4921
About Port Saint John
Port Saint John is a rapidly advancing Port striving to be a catalyst for growth, recognized for community leadership. A critical piece of Canada’s national supply chain, the Port boasts a diverse cargo base and unparalleled optionality via three Class I Railways. By championing innovation, promoting meaningful engagement, and investing in infrastructure, Port Saint John aims to be a safe, efficient port of choice while delivering economic prosperity in New Brunswick and beyond.