Transportation and Works
May 1
Investing in Our Transportation Networks
Funding Enhances Wharves in Preparation for Arrival of New Ferries
The Provincial Government is allocating $13.1 million through Budget 2015: Balancing Choices for a Promising Future for renovations to wharf infrastructure to accommodate two new ferries for Bell Island and Fogo Island-Change Islands. The tender is being called for enhancements to the Fogo Island wharf to accommodate the MV Veteran, and tenders were announced in March for wharf improvements at Portugal Cove and Bell Island in anticipation of the arrival of the MV Legionnaire in February 2016.
“This year, we have made great strides in preparing for the arrival of two new ferries that will support rural and remote communities. Our government has allocated $13.1 million this year for upgrades to ensure that our marine infrastructure is ready for the size and modern design of the new ferries. The Provincial Government is committed to supporting the ferry service for residents as well as visitors to Fogo Island and Change Islands, as it transports over 160,000 passengers and over 80,000 vehicles annually.”
- The Honourable David Brazil, Minister of Transportation and Works
The tender for Fogo Island wharf includes modifications to the ramp and widening of the approach to the ramp in order to accommodate the larger dimensions of the new ferry. The MV Veteran, an 80-metre ice-class ferry, is being constructed by Damen Shipyards Group and will accommodate 200 passengers and 60 vehicles. It is scheduled to arrive this fall. Significant progress has been made in the renewal and modernization of the provincial ferry fleet with two new ferries already delivering service. Annually, the provincial fleet of ferries transports more than 900,000 passengers, 400,000 vehicles, and 20,000 tonnes of freight across more than 50,000 arrivals and departures.
QUICK FACTS
- Budget 2015 allocates $13.1 million for renovations to wharf infrastructure to accommodate two new ferries for Fogo Island-Change Islands and Bell Island.
- The tender has been called for wharf enhancements to accommodate the larger dimensions of the new MV Veteran for Fogo Island-Change Islands.
- The MV Veteran is a 14-knot, 80-metre ice class ferry and will have a capacity to carry 200 passengers and 60 vehicles. It will arrive in the province this fall.
- Tenders were announced in March for wharf improvements at Portugal Cove and Bell Island in anticipation of the arrival of the MV Legionnaire in February 2016.
- Annually, the provincial fleet of ferries transports more than 900,000 passengers, 400,000 vehicles, and 20,000 tonnes of freight across more than 50,000 arrivals and departures.
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Media contact:
Jacquelyn Howard
Director of Communications
Department of Transportation and Works
709-729-3015, 689-2624
JacquelynHoward@gov.nl.ca
2015 05 01 3:30 p.m.