The Saint John region doesn't need mega projects in order to prosper according to the General Manager of Enterprise Saint John Steve Carson.
He says companies here can generate alot of work by tapping into the mega projects that are happening elsewhere in Atlantic Canada and building the components that are needed for these projects in Newfoundland, Labrador and Halifax. Carson adds he has been told providing supports for these projects has the potential of becoming a real gold mine.
Research has shown Saint Johnners overwhelmingly want their own community based economic development agency instead of relying on the province. Carson says its role will be determined by the Mayors and Councils in the region.
Saint John is seen as being strategically located as a gateway with affordable housing and the potential to have a skilled workforce led by U-N-B Saint John and the New Brunswick Community College.