Motorists in the Carbonear - Harbour Grace area will experience smoother driving conditions this summer with the announcement of $2.5 million in road infrastructure improvements for the area.

This significant investment is part of the 2008-09 Provincial Roads Improvement Program, valued at $73 million.

"Government is committed to upgrading the transportation infrastructure throughout rural Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Honourable Dianne Whalen, Minister of Transportation and Works. "Improved roads provide a more comfortable, safer traveling experience for residents and tourists alike."

Planned road work for Carbonear � Harbour Grace:

• Upgrade and resurface a section of Route 70-20;
• Upgrade and resurface a section of Route 70-30;
• Upgrade and resurface a section of Route 73;
• Upgrade and resurface a section of Route 70;
• Upgrade and resurface a section of Route 70-27;
• Replace the culvert at Double Brook, Route 74, Victoria;
• Replace the culvert at Wagner's Nursery, Route 70, Harbour Grace; and,
• Replace the culvert at Muddy Hole Road (Gullie�s Road), off Route 70, Tilton.

"This is a significant injection of funding for the roads of Carbonear - Harbour Grace," said the Honourable Jerome Kennedy, MHA for Carbonear - Harbour Grace. "The work to be carried out is much needed and will benefit residents and visitors alike. Our region is growing, our infrastructure needs are varied and this year marks a new beginning for our roads budget."

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, worth more than $2 billion.

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2008 03 13                                                    10:45 a.m.