The City of Summerside has set aside $1.5 million in its 2026-27 budget to complete the final paving phase of Cairns Boulevard. This investment marks the finishing touch on the 1.6-kilometre road, which officially opened on February 11, 2026, to connect MacEwan Road with Water Street East.
The project has already proven to be a financial success for the community, with the total construction cost reaching $16 million. This is significantly lower than the original $24 million estimate. The road is expected to play a major role in future local growth by opening up approximately 350 acres of land, creating space for an estimated 1,200 to 2,000 new housing units.
Beyond supporting housing development, the corridor is designed to improve daily life and public safety. The route will provide faster access for the Summerside Fire Department, supporting a new fire station being built on Ryan Street that is expected to be ready by late summer 2027.
The funding for this work is part of a larger 2026-27 budget that directs $26.7 million into various capital projects across the city. While the budget does not include an increase to property taxes, residents will see a six percent rise in water and sewer rates.
