Road improvements announced for Gander area

Trevor Taylor, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced road improvements for the Gander area valued at $1.03 million under the 2006-07 Provincial Roads Improvement Program.

"Improving the transportation infrastructure in Newfoundland and Labrador is one of this government�s top priorities," said Minister Taylor. "Gander is the heart of a service area that includes almost 100,000 people within a 100 kilometre radius. So needless to say, this roadwork is very beneficial to the region as a whole."

One of the major projects planned for the Gander area is the upgrading and paving of sections of Route 330, Gander Bay to Gander (which will coincide with a similar project in Bonavista North). Additionally, in carry-over work from last year, Cooper Boulevard to Airport Boulevard, will be upgraded and two pipe cuts will be repaired on the T.C.H. between Gander and Glenwood.

Also, under the Canadian Strategic Infrastructure Fund, rehabilitation will continue on 20 kilometres of the Trans-Canada Highway between Gander and Glenwood. This project, valued at $5 million, is funded through both the provincial and federal governments.

Gander MHA Kevin O�Brien said: "I am pleased that funding has been allocated for this program at such an early time in the year, allowing projects to begin sooner. The funding allotted for this area will go a long way to create a higher quality driving experience, making roads safer for all residents and visitors alike."

Government has pre-committed $60 million in the 2006-07 budget for the Provincial Roads Improvement Program, which includes $48.4 million in new money and $11.6 million carried over from the 2005-06 construction season.

The Provincial Roads Improvement Program has doubled in value from $30 million in 2004-05 to $60 million in 2006-07.

This is the earliest the department has received budget approval in decades, which allows the tendering and construction processes to begin much sooner.

Media contact: David Salter, Communications, (709) 729-3015, 691-3577

2006 03 03                                          3:00 p.m.