Spruce Lake Expansion Approved

Good morning Saint John! While robots in China are busy playing soccer, we’re just over here hoping someone sends a few to finish up construction on Main Street. Robots, get to work…we’ll go kick the ball around ⚽.

Here’s the lowdown for the day:

• 20 minute bridge shutdowns ⏳

• Council approves industrial park expansion 🛠️

• Quebec beer run? Sure…🍺

Let’s get to it!

-Geoff Walsh, Publisher

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NEWS NOTES

⚠️ 20-Minute Bridge Blackouts Start This Week

Starting Thursday (July 10), the Saint John Harbour Bridge is going to be doing its best impression of a moody teenager...randomly shutting down with no notice and giving you just enough time to be late. DTI is warning drivers about full closures that’ll pop up intermittently until early November. Each one will last about 20 minutes and hit during “off-peak” hours…so not during rush hour, but fair game before 7am, mid-mornings, mid-afternoons, or after dinner. It’s all part of ongoing upgrades to the bridge, so pack a little extra patience (and maybe a snack).

📍Spruce Lake Expansion Approved, Locals Still Wary

Saint John council has approved a major west side rezoning to expand Spruce Lake Industrial Park by 1,500 acres, despite strong pushback from Lorneville residents.

It’s being pitched as a “once-in-a-generation” shot at growth, with talk of a $2-billion data centre and green manufacturing hub. But neighbours say they’re in the dark about what’s actually coming, and they’re worried about their water, wetlands, and woods.

“We’re not against jobs,” said Adam Wilkins from Save Lorneville. “We just want to know what we’re signing up for.”

Only smokestack-free industries would be allowed, and risk assessments will be required. Still, the whole thing hinges on an environmental review now underway at the provincial level — which could take six months or more. Council also voted to reinvest future subdivision money into Lorneville projects, which may or may not sweeten the deal.

🍷 NB Booze Can Now Cross Borders

New Brunswick just uncorked a win for local alcohol producers, they’ll soon be able to ship wine, beer, and spirits straight to customers in other provinces. The change is part of a new trade agreement aiming to make interprovincial booze sales easier and way less bureaucratic.

Also gone: limits on how much you can bring back when you travel. Time to make room in the trunk and the liquor cabinet.

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EVENTS
What’s Happenin’

🎭 A little drama every once in a while ain’t so bad…especially when it’s on stage and not in your work group chat. Forget the daily grind and focus on the spotlights and have some fun!

ArtsLink NB Open House | July 9
ArtsLink NB invites the community to explore their lending library and new community studio at an open house on July 9 from 6-8pm in Saint John. The library offers over 600 books and magazines plus 30+ pieces of equipment like microphones, cameras, and ring lights available for borrowing. The flexible studio space can be booked for projects, meetings, or events. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy snacks, and learn more about the resources available to make amazing things here in Saint John.

The Tempest | July 16-19 & 23-26
Shakespeare under the stars is back, this time with The Tempest at Place Fort La Tour. Expect sea air, historic vibes, and a stormy tale of magic, revenge, and redemption, brought to life by Loyalist City Shakespeare and director Sandra Bell. If you liked Macbeth and Hamlet, you’ll want to catch this next chapter. It’s bold, local, and beautifully outdoors. Show starts at 7:30pm.

KV Players Present Grease | July 16-18 & 23-25
KV Players are throwing it back to poodle skirts and pompadours with Grease, the high school classic packed with sock hops, summer lovin’, and slicked-back charm. It’s all happening at KV High, where Danny, Sandy, and the gang will light up the stage with big energy and bigger hair. Local theatre fans know: these shows pack out fast. Curtain’s at 7:30pm.

Taylor: A Tribute to the Eras | July 19
Swifties, assemble. Imperial Theatre is going full sparkle for TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, with international performer Josette and crew bringing all the glitter, dancers, and bangers you can handle. Expect a full-throttle pop spectacle with over 20 Taylor hits, from Love Story to Cruel Summer. It’s basically the Eras Tour, Saint John edition…and yes, you’re allowed to scream-sing. Show starts at 7:30pm.

Spotlight on Summer Theatre Camps
From time-traveling musical revues to DIY music videos, InterAction’s summer camps are rolling out the red carpet for young performers. Openings are still available for Movie Makers: Teen Edition (July 21–Aug. 1) and Time Travellers for ages 7–11
(July 28–Aug. 1), where kids dive into screen acting, choreography, and costume-filled fun. These are just a couple of the options,  many more camps are running all summer long!

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SIDE NOTES

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Thanks!

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-Geoff Walsh - Publisher

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