Motorists in the Straits and White Bay North region will be travelling on smoother, stronger roads as a result of upgrades under the $66.5 million Provincial Roads Improvement Program of Budget 2007. The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced an investment of $2.55 million for road improvements in the area.

"Improving infrastructure in rural areas is one of government�s major commitments," said Minister Hickey. "We have made significant investments in our rural roads in recent months and the funding allocated for all upgrades will create employment opportunities and encourage economic growth in these areas."

Road improvement projects planned for the Straits & White Bay North are:

• Upgrading and resurfacing section of Route 430 between intersection of Route 436 and Parkers Brook bridge;
• Applying sealed surface to section of main road through Roddickton;
• Upgrading and applying sealed surface to Route 434 in Conche;
• Applying sealed surface to school bus route, Shoal Cove; and,
• Applying sealed surface to local roads in Sandy Cove.

"Roads on the Great Northern Peninsula were neglected for years by the previous administration," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, MHA for the Straits & White Bay North. "Since we took over government in 2003, many of the roads in my district have undergone major improvements. I am pleased that this year there will be another substantial investment in our roads, providing motorists with much better driving conditions."

Government estimates the Provincial Roads Improvement Program creates 1,200 person years of employment, with 94 per cent of the work being done in rural areas. This is the second year of government�s six-year strategy for infrastructure improvements exceeding $2 billion.

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