Torbay Bypass Continues to Take Shape

The Torbay Bypass continues to advance towards completion with the calling of a tender for the construction of a single-lane bridge for Birchy Nap Road.

"This bridge tender is another sign of progress as we see the final stages of the Torbay Bypass come into focus," said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Transportation and Works. "We are seeing the bigger picture take shape as the Williams Government continues to move forward on major provincial infrastructure projects."

The tender calls for the construction of a 42.7 metre panel-type bridge, with reinforced concrete abutments on Birchy Nap Road, over the Torbay Bypass, and the associated realignment, grading and paving of the road in the area of the bridge.

The total cost of the Torbay Bypass is estimated at $20 million. Of this amount, $10 million is being cost-shared 50/50 by the Provincial and Federal Governments under the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund. The remaining $10 million is being funded solely by the Provincial Government bringing the total Provincial Government contribution to this project to $15 million.

"The excitement surrounding the Torbay Bypass grows with each step we take towards its completion," said Kevin Parsons, MHA for Cape St. Francis. "The construction of this bridge over the Torbay Bypass will allow area residents continued use of Birchy Nap Road into the future."

It is anticipated the Torbay Bypass will be completed and open to traffic in the fall of 2010.

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2010 03 17                                                    9:55 a.m.