The Williams Government continues to improve road conditions throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced an investment of $1.7 million for road enhancements in the District of Terra Nova. This funding is part of government�s pre-commitment of funds for the Provincial Roads Improvement Program under Budget 2007.

"We are committed to providing residents of the province with a reliable transportation system," said Minister Hickey. "This year we will invest an unprecedented $66.5 million in the Provincial Roads Improvement Program and we will continue to make investments to improve our transportation infrastructure."

Road improvement projects planned for the Terra Nova area are:

In addition, under the Canadian Strategic Infrastructure Fund, another $3.7 million has been allocated to rehabilitate a section of the Trans Canada Highway, from the Terra Nova National Park west boundary to Gambo and repair the South West Brook Bridge.

"I am very pleased with this year�s funding allocation for my district," said Paul Oram, MHA for the District of Terra Nova. These road improvements will no doubt provide residents, as well as visitors to the area, with a much better driving experience. I will continue to work with my colleague, Minister Hickey, to ensure safe, reliable roads for the District of Terra Nova."

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.

This is the second year of government�s six-year strategy for infrastructure improvements exceeding $2 billion.

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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 27                                         11:05 a.m.