Traveling the Botwood highway will become a more enjoyable experience for visitors and area residents.

The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced an investment of $2.5 million for road improvements in the district of Exploits.

"This government is committed to providing a safe, reliable transportation network," said Minister Hickey. "We have therefore added another $6.5 million to our $60 million Provincial Roads Improvement Program."

The road projects planned for Exploits this year are:

• Rehabilitate Northern Arm Brook Bridge, Botwood;
• Rehabilitate Leading Tickles Causeway Bridge, Leading Tickles;
• Complete the upgrading and paving of the Botwood Highway, from the Trans Canada Highway to Botwood; and,
• Upgrade and pave a section of Glover�s Harbour Road.

In addition, under the Canadian Strategic Infrastructure Fund, $4.5 million has been allotted for the rehabilitation of the Trans Canada Highway, Bond Bridge towards Scott Avenue. This project is a 50-50 cost-shared endeavour with the federal government.

"I am very pleased with this year's investment in road improvements for my district," said Clayton Forsey, MHA for the District of Exploits. "Many residents have expressed their concerns over highway conditions in the area, particularly on Route 350 (the Botwood Highway) and the Trans Canada Highway. The funds allotted will no doubt go a long way in addressing these concerns."

Government estimates the Provincial Roads Improvement Program creates 1,200 person years of employment, with 94 per cent of the work being done in rural areas.

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Media contact:
David Salter
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 691-3577
davidsalter@gov.nl.ca

2007 04 09                                                 9:30 a.m.