Transportation and Works
May 13, 2015

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable David Brazil, Minister of Transportation and Works:

Minister Provides Update on Summer Road Construction and Maintenance Work

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to stand today to inform my Honourable colleagues that the Provincial Government is rolling out a substantial road construction and summer maintenance program again this year. Some tenders have already been called, and others will be called and awarded during the next several weeks.

Over $68 million has been allocated for the Provincial Roads Program this year, an increase in funding over last year. This is certainly an indication of the value we place on improving our roads and encouraging activity that helps stimulate the local economy.

In addition, over $20 million is allocated this year for summer maintenance work. The program encompasses important projects such as annual equipment inspections, line painting, pothole and asphalt repairs, excavating ditches, upgrading road shoulders, repairing culverts, and installing and repairing guide rails and signs.

We are also focused on grading gravel roads, which normally need attention following the winter months, as well as continuation of the brush clearing and dust suppression programs. These activities all improve driving and safety conditions for motorists.

Key multi-year projects for this construction season include work on the Heart's Content Barrens, the Trans Labrador Highway, the Bay d'Espoir highway, the Baie Verte/La Scie road, and the Southeast Placentia road, along with upgrades to various other roads in regions across the province. These projects were tendered over two years, Mr. Speaker, to ensure an early start to work this year.

Our crews work diligently throughout the summer, Mr. Speaker, and investments of over $400 million in recent years have helped maintain, upgrade and enhance hundreds of kilometres of roads, as well as repair or replace over 25 bridges. This construction season is no different, and we remain committed to providing a safe and reliable transportation network throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you.

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2015 05 13                              2:25 p.m.