Investing in Infrastructure: Grand Falls-Buchans will see improved roads

Trevor Taylor, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced an investment of $650,000 for road improvements in the Grand Falls-Buchans area as part of government�s ongoing commitment to modernize infrastructure and stimulate the economy in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.

These projects are funded under the $60 million Provincial Roads Improvement Program � part of the $171 million allocated for transportation infrastructure in Budget 2006.

"Government is acting on its Blueprint commitment to invest in infrastructure and grow economies throughout the province," said Minister Taylor. "We have made a significant investment in transportation infrastructure as we continue to improve our roads network."

The road enhancements planned for Grand Falls-Buchans include the repair of wheel rutting and cracks at various locations on the Trans-Canada Highway from Grand Falls-Windsor to Badger. These projects include some carryover work from the last construction season.

In total, government will invest $300 million for infrastructure development this year, the first of a six-year, $2 billion infrastructure modernization strategy that will generate more than 4,500 full-time equivalent jobs.

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

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

2006 04 17                                12:25 p.m.