Contents | Previous | Next  Strategic Directions Infrastructure Put in place the strategic infrastructure for economic development We have a significant “infrastructure deficit.” We know regions that fail to invest in basic infrastructure can expect substandard economic growth. Careful assessment of priorities will allow us to maximize improvements over the next 10 years. The fundamental task will be to set overall provincial infrastructure priorities: roads, ports, airports, digital networks, and municipal infrastructure. This will require new initiatives in both interdepartmental and intergovernmental co-operation. Issue Actions/Next Steps Transport Pursue the initiatives outlined in the multi-modal transportation strategy prepared through Voluntary Planning in 1999   • Highways Develop a 10-year plan for rehabilitating and upgrading highways   • Ports Begin by identifying and taking advantage of opportunities to develop the ports of Halifax, the Strait, and Sydney   • Harbours Establish provincial priorities for maintaining strategic harbours   • Airports Begin by identifying and taking advantage of opportunities to develop Halifax International Airport’s status as the regional hub, and Yarmouth and Sydney airports as key assets for economic development Municipal infrastructure Implement the Infrastructure Canada-Nova Scotia partnership agreement with the federal and municipal governments, with the priority being water and sewage treatment facilities IT and communications Building on the work of the Information Economy Initiative and other provincial/federal collaborations, use government leverage to ensure Nova Scotians have digital connections second to none by 2003 Social infrastructure Ensure health, education, and social services are provided in a manner that enhances economic development and the overall well-being of Nova Scotians Environment Recognize the natural environment as an asset, and preserve and protect it faithfully; embrace sustainability as a foundation for long-term growth Measuring Progress—Government will monitor these issues on an annual provincial infrastructure scorecard. Contents:   Contents Premier’s Message Minister’s Message Introduction What We Heard What We Learned Where We Want to Go How We Will Get There  Strategic Directions    - Business Climate    - Infrastructure    - Innovation    - Labour Force    - Investment    - Exports    - Regional Capacity  Vital Economic Sectors    - Foundation Industries    - Growth Opportunities Making It Happen  Nova Scotia Business Inc.  Nova Scotia Economic Development Agency Measuring Progress Home Highlights | Strategy | News Release | Background | Feedback Form  Comments to comm@gov.ns.ca | Privacy Statement Copyright © 2006, Government of Nova Scotia, All Rights Reserved.