Transportation and Works
July 2, 2010

Bridgework Coming to Gander Bay and Twillingate Regions

The Williams Government's infrastructure strategy continues to deliver tangible benefits to motorists travelling throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister of Transportation and Works, today announced that a tender will be called for bridgework in the Gander Bay and Twillingate regions.

"We have approximately 740 bridges throughout the province and we place the highest priority on maintaining these important pieces of highway infrastructure," said Minsiter Hedderson. "Periodic maintenance of our bridge structures helps to ensure the longevity of these structures and enhance public safety."

The tender calls for the replacement of an expansion joint and associated work on the Gander Bay Causeway Bridge and the Walter B. Elliot Causeway Bridge.

"Quality highway infrastructure, including bridge infrastructure, is vital to rural economies that depend heavily on tourist traffic each year," said Harry Harding, MHA for Bonavista North. "The replacement of an expansion joint on the Gander Bay Causeway will help lead to a smoother driving experience for all motorists travelling through this region."

"The Walter B. Elliot Causeway provides an essential road link to the beautiful Twillingate region," said Derrick Dalley, MHA for the Isles of Notre Dame. "This area plays host to many tourists each summer, from both within and outside the province, and I am pleased to see this necessary investment in the causeway bridge."

Budget 2010: The Right Investments - For Our Children and Our Future provides $177.7 million in Provincial Government funding for road and bridge expenditures throughout the province. This funding will be supplemented by an additional $57.9 million in Federal Government funding for a total road and bridge investment of $235.6 million in 2010-11. The Provincial Government's overall infrastructure strategy includes investments in municipalities, healthcare, education, justice, social housing, transportation, and environment and conservation.

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