March 17, 1998
(Works, Services and Transportation)
Government committed to Gould's Bypass Road
Works, Services and Transportation Minister Lloyd
Matthews today provided assurances to communities of the Southern
Shore concerning the construction of the Gould's Bypass Road.
"This is a project that figures prominently in the
department's overall transportation plans," said Minister
Matthews. "Construction of the Gould's Bypass Road has been
identified as a priority under the Newfoundland Transportation
Initiative. The priorities have not changed and government
remains committed to the project."
The start date for construction on the Gould's
Bypass will not begin in this construction year, in an effort to
complete some of the larger projects already under way.
"Construction on some of the major projects such as the
Conception Bay Bypass Roads and the Outer Ring Road is
continuing. These ongoing projects should be completed as quickly
as possible so that people can begin using these new
thoroughfares this year," said the minister.
The construction of a new bypass road to service
communities along the Southern Shore is a viable project. "I
understand that residents of the area are anxious to see
construction begin, however, we feel it is appropriate to make
every effort to complete the projects we've started," said
Mr. Matthews. The minister stressed the Gould's Bypass will go
ahead and once construction begins the road will be completed
quickly.
Funding for most highway improvement projects
comes from the Newfoundland Transportation Initiative, a 15-year
agreement due to expire in 2002/03. Seventeen highway improvement
projects were announced for 1998/99 totalling $54 million.
Contact: Jill Sooley, (709)729-3015.
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