An investment of $297,100 to the towns of Baie Verte, Bay of Islands and St. George�s will help develop and secure infrastructure, and improve municipal services.

The Honourable Jack Byrne, Minister of Municipal Affairs, today announced the first series of projects which have been approved through the $34.2 million 2007-08 Municipal Capital Works Program.

"The Municipal Capital Works Program strengthens municipal infrastuture through strategic investments to support the continued growth and modernization of communities throughout the province," stated Minister Byrne. "This year we supported an earlier approval process to allow municipalities the opportunity to begin construction and complete projects at an earlier date. This approach will allow municipalities to improve infrastructure in their towns in a more effective and efficient manner."

Project support announced today includes:

• $210,000 to St. George�s in the district of St. George�s Stephenville East to resurface Brakes Road;
• $49,284 to replace aging equipment in the Cape St. John Arena recreation facility for La Scie in the district of Baie Verte; and,
• $37,804 for two initiatives in Bay of Islands including $24,000 to the Town of McIvers for a water extension to Route 440 and installation of a new fire hydrant, and $13,804 to Mount Moriah to support a playground extension.

The Municipal Capital Works Program provides support to municipalities to develop a wide range of municipal infrastructure and is cost-shared between the province and municipalities. In 2007-08 the Municipal Capital Works Program is valued at $34.2 million, which includes a provincial contribution of $22.2 million.

Media contact:
Heather MacLean
Director of Communications
709-729-1983, 690-2498
heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca

2007 04 09 10:45 a.m.