Seasonal pothole repairs are in full swing in Saint John, N.B. So far in 2026, the city reports having repaired 3,285 potholes in the area. “Early in the spring, changing temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles create many potholes in a short period of time,” says Tim O’Reilly, director of the city’s Public Works Department in a news release. Safety and traffic volumes are at the top of Saint John’s priorities in these repair efforts, according to the release. High-traffic streets classified as “Priority 1” and “Priority 2” will be addressed first. The rest will be dealt with as resources allow, according to the city. “Transit routes, emergency response corridors, and public service requests are key factors in determining where crews are deployed,” reads the release. “Residential streets continue to be addressed as capacity permits.” Saint John says the recent opening of an asphalt plant on April 22 will help crews work more efficiently. “The use of hot asphalt significantly speeds up how many potholes we can repair,” says O’Reilly. “Before asphalt plants open, when more potholes show up, the other methods we use to fill potholes are either slower or less effective.” Saint John is also implementing an asphalt management program, which involves laying larger pads of asphalt, road reconstructions and inspections. The city encourages residents to report potholes and roadway concerns through its online portal. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
