Coastal Corridor Faces Tidal Threat: $650M Project Underway to Protect Critical Infrastructure

As of October 2025, the Chignecto Isthmus, a low-lying corridor connecting the Canadian provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is facing a growing threat from climate change and an astronomical cycle that is increasing the vulnerability of the critical infrastructure in the region.

The 18.6-year lunar nodal cycle, which has been on an upward trend since 2015, is set to reach its peak between 2029 and 2036, with 2034 being the probable time when the highest tides will be observed in the Bay of Fundy. This, combined with the incremental rise in sea levels, means that it will take a lesser storm to result in coastal flooding along the isthmus.

In response to this threat, the governments of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Canada have committed to a $650 million project to protect the corridor, which includes high-voltage transmission lines, CN Rail tracks, and the Trans-Canada Highway. This infrastructure is essential for the $250 million in daily trade that depends on the isthmus.

The project, which was initially estimated to cost between $190 and $300 million and take 10 years to complete, has faced delays and increased costs. However, the provinces and the federal government have now agreed to share the $650 million price tag, with each contributing $162.5 million to match the federal government's $325 million commitment.

The project remains in the planning stages, with ongoing engagement with First Nations, consultations with stakeholders, and the analysis of hurricane modeling data. While the next peak of the lunar nodal cycle is still several years away, the incremental increase in tides and sea levels means that the vulnerability of the isthmus is growing with each passing year.