June 30, 1999
(Works, Services and Transportation)

Minister makes site visit of Trans Labrador Highway

Rick Woodford, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, says he is pleased with the efforts that contracting firms are making to improve conditions of the Trans Labrador Highway. The minister, along with senior officials of his staff, travelled the 540 km highway on Tuesday.

The minister said the trip afforded him the opportunity to personally observe and to become thoroughly familiar with all aspects of the highway which hopefully will be completed this fall.

Mr. Woodford also met with municipal officials to discuss their concerns, including Mayor Jim Farrell of Wabush, councillor Ern Condon of the Labrador City Town Council and Graham Letto, president of the Combined Councils of Labrador. Following the completion of his trip on Tuesday afternoon, the minister met with Mayor John Hickey of Happy Valley-Goose Bay and town Manager Al Durno.

The minister said: "While the highway is in good driving shape for the most part, I do recognize that there are problem areas that require attention. I want to assure all residents of Labrador that immediate steps are being taken to address their concerns and I will ensure that the highway is properly maintained on a regular and consistent basis."

The department is spending $10 million this year to complete the Trans Labrador Highway which was constructed over the last three years at a total cost of $53 million. On average, the department spends $2 million annually on highway maintenance.

The minister also announced that tenders will be called shortly for improvement to the intersection of the Trans Labrador Highway (TLH) with Hamilton Road. This will involve realignment of the intersection and improvements to the vertical alignment. The project is expected to cost in the vicinity of $1 million.

Mr. Woodford's department is also spending $36 million this year on construction of the first phase of the new road from Red Bay to Cartwright. All contracts have been awarded for this work. The construction of this 355 km highway - including the 30 km access to Charlottetown - is a four year project costing $130 million. The entire project is expected to create 5500 seasonal jobs.

Mr. Woodford said the six construction companies involved are making every effort to ensure employment opportunities for the people of Labrador.

"There is a clear need for a combination of road, air, and marine services that will enhance travel throughout Labrador, making the movement of goods and services flow faster and more cost effectively," said Mr. Woodford. "These major construction projects are of immense value to the people of Labrador. Among other things they will foster economic development in mining, forestry, fishery, and tourism."

Accompanied Mr. Woodford were Don Osmond, assistant deputy minister of Works; Keith White, executive director of Roads, and Dean Osmond, regional director, WST, Labrador.

Media contact: Gary Callahan, Communications, (709) 729-3015.

1999 06 30         11:30 a.m.