$61 Million to Improve Highways in Nova Scotia
PREMIER'S OFFICE/TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--$61 Million to Improve Highways in Nova Scotia
A cost-shared commitment of $61 million towards the twinning of sections of Highway 101 and Highway 104 was announced today, April 9, by Premier John Hamm and Robert Thibault, federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of Allan Rock, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Infrastructure.
"Securing more federal funding to improve Nova Scotia highways has been a priority of our government since day one," said Premier Hamm. "Better highways mean safer travel for Nova Scotians and visitors to our province. Better highways are an important investment in our economy."
"I am pleased that our governments agree on the importance of highway twinning for the safety of all Nova Scotians," said Mr. Thibault. "I am confident today's announcement will have a major impact on tourism and on the economy of the entire province."
"Today's announcement demonstrates once again the government of Canada's commitment to key strategic infrastructure throughout the country," said Mr. Rock. "These twinning projects will increase economic opportunities for local businesses and the many industries that thrive throughout Nova Scotia and Eastern Canada."
"The government of Canada recognizes that the safe and efficient movement of people and goods is critical to our economy and to the quality of life of Canadians," stated federal Transport Minister David Collenette. "Our government is committed to working in partnership with other levels of government to deliver much-needed transportation improvements throughout Canada."
The government of Canada's $30.5-million contribution to these projects will be made through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund. The government of Nova Scotia will match this contribution. Both governments have agreed to continue to examine how best to support the completion of these twinning projects.
The $61-million investment will provide for the twinning of an eight-kilometre section of Highway 104 between New Glasgow and Pine Tree Road, as well as the twinning of two sections of Highway 101 between Falmouth and Avonport, and St. Croix and Wentworth Road. The work on Highway 101 will also include the construction of three new grade separations at Exit 25 near Joggins, at Exit 32 near Hectanooga Road, and at Brooklyn Road in Yarmouth.
Through the $2-billion Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund, the government of Canada is working with provincial, territorial and municipal governments, as well as with the private sector, to respond to strategic infrastructure needs throughout the country. These investments are directed to large-scale projects of major national and regional significance, in areas that are vital to sustaining economic growth and supporting an enhanced quality of life for Canadians.
In the Speech from the Throne of Sept. 30, 2002, the government of Canada committed to an additional 10-year involvement in public infrastructure. Its 2003 budget reaffirmed this long-term commitment and provided an additional $3 billion for strategic and municipal infrastructure. In combination with the $5.25 billion in infrastructure programs announced in the 2000 and 2001 budgets, this brings the government of Canada's recent investment in the nation's infrastructure to more than $8 billion.
Today's announcements bring the government of Canada's investment in Nova Scotia's infrastructure since 1994 to more than $405 million.
For more information on Infrastructure Canada and its programs, and for a French version of this news release please visit the Web site at: www.infrastructurecanada.gc.ca .