June 4, 1996
(Works Services and Transportation)

Work on Trans Labrador Highway continues with awarding of tenders

Labrador MHAs are pleased to see that work will continue to upgrade the Trans Labrador Highway this summer. Tenders have been awarded on three different bridge improvement projects that were announced in last month's provincial budget. This is part of $8 million in committed funding for various road improvement projects in Labrador, primarily on the Trans Labrador Highway.

The replacement of existing wooden bridge at Bob's Brook with a long span structural plate arch and grading of approaches has been awarded to Labrador Construction Ltd. At a cost of $437,077, Labrador Construction was the lowest of three bids. This project is anticipated to finish at the end of July.

Colby Construction Ltd. was awarded the contract for the removal and replacement of the deck on Goose River Bridge. Colby Construction was the lowest of seven bids at $639,887.76. The completion of this project is expected at the end of August.

The construction of a single span structural steel girder bridge and approaches at West Metchin River was awarded to S.M. Construction Ltd. At a cost of $872,430, S.M. Construction was the lowest of six bids. This project is also forecast to conclude at the end of August.

Ernest McLean, MHA - Lake Melville and Minister of Government Services and Lands, said: "These projects show a real commitment by the provincial government to upgrade the Trans Labrador Highway to an acceptable standard. The truckers and general public of Labrador took a firm but reasonable stand and were successful. However, we will not be totally satisfied until a long-term deal is reached with our federal colleagues."

Perry Canning, MHA - Labrador West, said: "The people of Labrador should be very encouraged with the amount of funding that has been directed to the Trans Labrador Highway, especially in these times of government restraint. An improved Trans Labrador Highway will greatly enhance the region's market potential and significantly complement Labrador's future economic growth."

Julie Bettney, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, said: "These bridge improvement projects illustrate the high priority the provincial government places on the Trans Labrador Highway. We are also committed to securing a long-term agreement with the federal government to provide the residents of Labrador with a decent highway transportation network they rightly deserve."

These three projects are cost-shared 50/50 by the federal and provincial governments under the Strategic Highway Improvement Program. Additional projects will be tendered over the next few weeks.

Contact: Mr. McLean's Office, 729-4712; Mr. Canning's Office, 729-0262; or Ian Chaytor, Director of Public Relations, Department of Works, Services and Transportation, 729-1968