Contracts awarded for sections of Trans Labrador Highway

Lloyd Matthews, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation, and Ernest McLean, Minister Responsible for Labrador, today announced that two contracts have been awarded for sections of the Trans Labrador Highway.

The ministers also announced that Terry McCarthy, former Assistant Deputy Minister, Transportation, has been appointed full-time coordinator for the Trans Labrador Highway project.

Northland Contracting Limited of Mount Pearl has been awarded a $4,114,920 contract to upgrade 21 kilometres of road which will complete the 36 kilometre section between Happy Valley-Goose Bay and Lower Brook.

S.M. Construction Limited of Stephenville has been awarded a $8,153,000 contract to upgrade the 38 kilometre section of the TLH between Upper Brook and Pope's Hill.

Mr. Matthews said: "Work on both these contracts involves road upgrading by widening and improving turns and grades; some road realignment; improving ditches and installation of new culverts; placing a crushed gravel driving surface; and installation of guide rails where necessary."

Mr. McLean said: "I am delighted to learn from Northland Contracting that they intend to sub-contract a major portion of this work to Labrador companies. S.M. Construction Limited has also said it is keenly aware that Labradorians expect to see employment opportunities resulting from this contract. I am also delighted that Terry McCarthy has been appointed full-time coordinator for this project. His appointment does indeed highlight the importance of this project."

The Department of Works, Services and Transportation, will call a third contract by mid-June for upgrading work between Bob's Brook and Cache River. Mr. Matthews said: "At the end of this construction season, more than 120 kilometres of the TLH will be upgraded. The department will also allocate funds for environmental assessment, planning and engineering work, and mapping and surveying. In total, the department plans to spend $20 million on the TLH during this construction season. During the life of this massive project we will spend more than $360 million."

Mr. McLean said that awarding of these contracts demonstrates government's commitment to the promises it has made. "For the people of Labrador, the TLH is much more than a road, it is a symbol of freedom and independence. It will open this great land to the world and foster economic development in mining, forestry, fishing and in tourism."

Contact: Rick Callahan, Director of Communications, Works, Services and Transportation, (709) 729-4860.