The Provincial Government is investing $2.5 million to upgrade road infrastructure in the Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune area.

The Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Transportation and Works, announced the funding today as part of government�s record-setting $73 million Provincial Roads Improvement Program.

"This government recognizes the importance of highways and secondary roads in developing the economy in rural Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Whalen. "This funding is indicative of that commitment."

Road work planned for Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune is:

• Upgrade and pave section of Route 360, Bay d�Espoir Highway;
• Upgrade and pave section of Route 361, St. Alban�s Road; and,
• Upgrade walkways in Francois.

"This is a great day for local residents and health-care providers who travel this highway on a daily basis," said Tracey Perry, MHA for Fortune Bay-Cape La Hune.  "It�s also a great boost for our local industries. The past few years have seen a substantial increase in economic activity and job creation, all in rural Newfoundland and Labrador.  These projects will contribute to the further economic development of this region and the safety of the traveling public."

The Provincial Roads Improvement Program will create an estimated 1,400 person years of employment and is part of the Provincial Government�s infrastructure strategy, valued at more than $2 billion.

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Media contact:
David Salter
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 691-3577
davidsalter@gov.nl.ca