Budget 2014 Investments Total $852.7 Million in Infrastructure Projects

Well-developed transportation and infrastructure networks are a priority of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and a priority of the Provincial Government as reflected by an allocation of $852.7 million in Budget 2014 for infrastructure projects in the province. This is further highlighted by an early announcement of $30 million in January 2014 to start road projects earlier. It is one of the largest investments ever in the Provincial Roads Program outside of the response to Hurricane Igor, furthering work to support economic growth and job creation. Since 2004, $5.3 billion has been invested in infrastructure benefiting communities throughout the province.

“Our government has heard and shares the views of residents who see improvements in infrastructure as investments in our province’s future contributing to community and economic development. With Budget 2014 investments totalling $852.7 million, we are standing true to the priorities of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and ensuring that the province is home to a well-developed transportation network and solid infrastructure that supports a strong economy.”
- The Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister of Transportation and Works

Budget 2014 investments in infrastructure will help stimulate 5,471 person years of employment and allocate funding to advance the development of important health, education, tourism, and municipal infrastructure.

“In the coming year, we are continuing to advance essential infrastructure, which includes ferry vessel replacement and wharf upgrades, as well as a new hospital in western Newfoundland, a long-term care facility in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, and new schools. We will also open a new hospital in Labrador City and new treatment centres in Paradise and Grand Falls-Windsor, as well as other facilities. Collectively, these initiatives are helping shape our province’s future and strengthening our ability to deliver valuable programs and services to residents and families.”
- Minister McGrath

For further details see the enclosed Backgrounder: Budget 2014 Investments in Infrastructure.

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

• Budget 2014 includes investments totalling $852.7 million, which reflect the significance of a well-developed transportation network and access to infrastructure to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
• Since 2004, $5.3 billion has been spent on advancing key infrastructure projects in many areas such as transportation, municipalities, health care and education.
• Budget 2014 includes one of the largest investments ever in the Provincial Roads Program, outside of the response to Hurricane Igor.
• In the coming year, the Provincial Government will continue to advance essential infrastructure, which includes ferry vessel replacement and wharf upgrades, as well as a new hospital in western Newfoundland, new schools, and a long-term care facility in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

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Backgrounder - Budget 2014 Investments in Infrastructure

Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca

2014 03 27                                  2:55 p.m.