Province invests $2 million in brush-clearing

John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced the details of a $2 million provincial brush-clearing program.

"The impact of brush-clearing cannot be underestimated," said Minister Hickey. "Cutting back this brush helps create much safer roads for motorists in this province."

Clearing brush improves motorists' visibility on curves and intersections; provides unobstructed views of road signs and potential dangers such as moose; helps highway drainage; aids snow removal and reduces icy pavement conditions.

Government estimates that this brush-cutting initiative will create approximately 200,000-person hours of employment in various locations throughout the province. Projects are expected to commence within the next four-six weeks at which time the chosen communities will be determined.

This $2 million brush-clearing program is in addition to the $4.25 million Community Enhancement Program announced last month by the Department of Municipal Affairs. Municipal Affairs will administer both programs.

Applications and complete program guidelines can be found at //www.gov.nl.ca/mpa/cep/ or may be obtained by calling the Department of Municipal Affairs at 1-866-508-5500, or by contacting area MHAs at their constituency offices.

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

2006 08 29       3:00 p.m.