NLIS 2
June 29, 2006
(Transportation and Works)

Investing in Infrastructure: Road and bridge improvements for Terra Nova

As part of government's Blueprint pledge to address the provincial infrastructure deficit and invigorate rural economies, Trevor Taylor, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced an investment of $718,000 for infrastructure improvements in the Terra Nova area under the Provincial Roads Improvement Program.

Government will invest $300 million in infrastructure this year, of which $171 million is earmarked for transportation infrastructure. Approximately 97 per cent of this investment in transportation infrastructure is being spent outside the Northeast Avalon region. This is the first installment of a six-year strategy for infrastructure improvements exceeding $2 billion that will create more than 4,500 full-time equivalent jobs.

"Investing in infrastructure is a top priority for this government," said Minster Taylor. "We are allocating a substantial amount of funding for road improvements this year, reinforcing government's commitment to rural Newfoundland and Labrador, creating employment and stimulating economies."

The planned improvements for the Terra Nova area include some carryover work from last year and are as follows:

• Complete upgrading on Route 301, Terra Nova Road;
• Replace center pier for Cull's Harbour Bailey Bridge;
• Upgrade a section of St. Brendan's Road;
• Supply and install guide rail at Musgravetown;
• Resurface a one km section of Legion Road in Port Blandford.

"The work to be completed as a result of over $700,000 in infrastructure funding for my district will make travel safer and more enjoyable for both residents and visitors to the area," said Paul Oram, MHA for Terra Nova. "Our government's commitment to safe and reliable transportation infrastructure throughout the province remains strong, and I will continue to work with Minister Taylor to address the ongoing infrastructure needs of my district."

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