Transportation and Works
March 10, 2014
Significant Transportation Investments Support Long-Term Prosperity
Highway Improvements on the Horizon for Labrador West
Road construction will soon get underway in Labrador West, with the issuing of an early tender to upgrade Route 500. This project is part of a new approach by the Provincial Government to ensure an early start for road construction projects province-wide, with a $30 million pre-commitment under Budget 2014.
“Our Provincial Road Improvement Program plays a significant role in our overall infrastructure improvement strategy and our pre-commitment of $30 million will make sure we utilize the full construction season and at the same time maximize our total overall investment.”
- The Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Transportation and Works, and Minister Responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
The project tender calls for resurfacing of approximately 15 kilometres of Route 500, from Labrador City towards Fermont, Quebec. The tender will be issued March 14 with a closing date of early April.
“Upgrades for this section of Route 500 are very important for Labrador West and with the construction of the Trans Labrador Highway advancing ahead of schedule these improvements will bring social and economic benefits to all regions on Labrador.”
– Minister McGrath
The $30 million funding is a pre-commitment under the full Department of Transportation and Works budget plan for 2014-15. Further funding allocations for the transportation infrastructure program will be determined during the annual budget process.
Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries and building a vibrant economy.
QUICK FACTS
- An early tender has been issued to upgrade approximately 15 kilometres of Route 500 from Labrador City towards Fermont, Quebec.
- An investment of $30 million is providing for an early start to road construction this year.
- The Heavy Civil Association of Newfoundland and Labrador recommended this new approach and endorses the early issue of tenders.
- More than $500 million has been invested to date on construction of the Trans Labrador Highway.
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Media contact:Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
and Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-3015, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca
2014 03 10 11:30 a.m.