Proposed development at 573 Woodward Avenue. (Image from the City of Saint John)
Blasting concerns were addressed at Saint John’s common council regarding a proposed development.
During the meeting, council discussed a rezoning application from NJP Developments Inc.
The developer is proposing to build three apartment complexes, which will have a total of 225 residential units at 573 Woodward Avenue.
However, community members and councillors had several concerns, especially with potential blasting.
“There have been several projects in Saint John where they blasted, I’ve watched them, they have the process down, and I know they take before and after pictures, but for me, it’s about how long it takes to get the job done because I don’t want to see it go on and on,” said Deputy Mayor, John MacKenzie.
City staff addressed several questions, including if the City would be held liable if a resident’s property was damaged during blasting.
“The efforts undergone by the contractor are regulated by the Occupational Health and Safety Act … so, (the contractor) is held under those requirements, so the City has no role to play,” said Melanie Tompkins, general counsel for the City.
Other concerns that were addressed were the construction of proper sidewalks and crosswalks, as well as the development only having one entrance and exit.
The first and second reading for the proposed rezoning was approved, however, Councillor Paula Radwan voted against it.
It will go to the third reading at a later date.
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