Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

It's a project to upgrade Major's Path between Hebron Way and Portugal Cove Road, including the construction of a new multi-lane roundabout on Portugal Cove Road at Major's Path/Airport Heights Drive, and the replacement of two large diameter culverts on Virginia River near the roundabout. Major's Path will have a sidewalk on the south side and a shared use path along the north side, that will connect to the Airport Heights to Paul Reynolds Community Centre shared use path as part of the City's active transportation network and to advance the 2019 Bike Master Plan.  

• Recent collision reports ranked this intersection as the 5^th highest in the City for the number of collisions per million vehicles entering the intersection.  In addition, this intersection has long queue lengths for the left turn from Portugal Cove Road northbound to Airport Heights Drive.
• Roundabouts are generally safer for all users than signalized intersections. Collisions at roundabouts tend to be less frequent and less severe than at other intersections with similar traffic volumes. Roundabouts typically improve traffic flow and operate with fewer delays than the existing signalized intersection. 
• Construction of a roundabout at this intersection is expected to improve traffic flow and safety for all users.

The Major's Path Upgrades are anticipated to be completed in 2024, with the Portugal Cove Roundabout and two culvert replacements in 2025-2026.  Note that the project is still in the design stage and the anticipated timelines are subject to change.

Contractors typically work Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm; however, work may take place outside of these days/times, if necessary.

Nighttime construction would not be feasible considering the noise it creates and the neighbouring residential properties.  However, certain construction activities may be scheduled for completion at night to limit impacts to properties in the area.

This is a large project, involving complete removal and reconstruction of Major's Path and the Portugal Cove Road intersection, as well as removal/replacement of two large diameter culverts on Virginia River. Each of these phases of work will require the full extents of a typical NL construction season to complete.  In addition, completion of the work in separate phases will help limit traffic impacts in the area during construction.

Yes. It is anticipated that traffic on Major's Path will be reduced to one lane during construction. During the roundabout construction and culvert replacements, it is anticipated that Portugal Cove Road will have one lane of traffic in each direction and at least one lane of traffic will be maintained to Airport Heights Drive and Major's Path. Traffic control persons and signage will be in place; however, with the number of lanes reduced, traffic disruptions are expected, and detours may be required at times. Pedestrian access will be maintained on at least one side of the street during construction with posted signage in and near the construction zone.

Access will be maintained to all residences and businesses. "Local Traffic Only" signage will be posted, as necessary. The City's project manager and contractor will coordinate work in the area with residents and business owners to minimize disruptions.

The Metrobus bus stops along the project area may be impacted by construction. For current information on Metrobus impacts associated with the project, please visit the Metrobus website at https://mbus.ca.

It’s always good to receive updates on potential traffic interruptions by subscribing to City Notifications for such things as road closures, lane reductions, and other impacts to City traffic. Sign up for City Notifications at www.stjohns.ca.

Water service interruptions are expected for this project; however, will be kept to a minimum.  Residents will be notified in advance of any scheduled service interruption by the contractor.

Sewer service interruptions are not anticipated for this project.

Project funding comes from the multi-year capital works funding shared by the City of St. John's and the Government of NL.

Civic improvement assessments will apply to the properties within the Major's Path upgrades area. Properties in the Portugal Cove Road roundabout and culvert replacement areas of the project will not be subject to civic improvement assessments.