Improvements to Bell Island wharf

Works, Services and Transportation Minister Percy Barrett and Conception Bay East-Bell Island MHA Jim Walsh announced today the awarding of a contract for improvements to the docking facilities at Bell Island.

The contract, valued at $791,464.50, was awarded to Mariner Engineering and Construction Ltd. The work will include modifying a section of the existing wharf by adding steel piles and timber cribs, which will strengthen the structure. The work will start immediately and be completed by early summer 2002.

"These improvements are part of our ongoing effort to upgrade the docking facilities at Bell Island," said Barrett. "In the past two years we have invested over $2 million in upgrades to the Bell Island wharves, thereby improving the overall service."

"All of the work being done on these wharves by government will mean two vessels will be able to dock more efficiently," said Walsh. "As the MHA for the area, I am very pleased with the efforts put forth by government to enhance the ferry service for users."

Media contact: Lynn Evans, Communications, (709) 729-3015.

2002 02 18                           3:25 p.m.