The Provincial Government launched its record-setting 2008-09 Provincial Roads Improvement Program today, allotting $2.475 million for projects in The Isles of Notre Dame region.

The Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Transportation and Works, made the announcement, as part of this year�s $73 million strategy to improve provincial roads.

"This government recognizes the correlation between infrastructure investment and economic growth, which is one of the main reasons we are making unprecedented investments in our province�s roads, particularly in rural parts of the province," said Minister Whalen.

"We anticipate this year�s funding will create over 1,400 person years of employment."

In addition to the $73 million in new funding, approximately $3 million will be carried over from last year�s Provincial Roads Improvement Program. These road improvements are part of the Provincial Government�s infrastructure strategy, valued at over $2 billion.

The road improvements planned for The Isles of Notre Dame are:

• Upgrade and resurface Route 340, from 83 kilometre mark, towards Twillingate Causeway Bridge;
• Upgrade and pave Route 340, Twillingate Causeway towards Twillingate, and;
• Complete paving Route 335-14, Change Islands Road.

Derrick Dalley, MHA for The Isles of Notre Dame, said: "I am extremely pleased with this significant investment. In addition to providing a more pleasurable and comfortable travelling experience for residents and tourists alike, these projects will have a positive impact on the area's economy."

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2008 02 20                                                   9:25 a.m.