Transportation and Works
June 9, 2015

Responsible Investments to Benefit Residents

Preparation Underway for Improvements to Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s Wharf

The tender for enhancements to the wharf at Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s to accommodate the new 80-metre ice class ferry the MV Legionnaire has closed.

“Releasing the tender for the infrastructure upgrades at the Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s wharf is an important step in the preparation for the arrival of the MV Legionnaire. Ferry services are critically important to residents and visitors of Bell Island, with the route providing service to over 400,000 passengers and on average close to 200,000 vehicles annually. Through this tender, we will ensure that our marine infrastructure is ready for the size and modern design of the new ferry.”
- The Honourable David Brazil, Minister of Transportation and Works

The tender includes modifications to the wharf and the construction of a fixed ramp to move vehicles on and off the ferry, which is scheduled to arrive in the province in February 2016.

“During the construction period, there may be some disruptions in service, and we are working with the contractor to minimize the impact on travelers to and from Bell Island during that time. Upon conclusion of the construction, I am pleased to note that additional parking will be available on the breakwater.”
- Minister Brazil

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

• The tender for enhancements to the wharf at Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s to accommodate the new 80-metre ice class ferry the MV Legionnaire has closed.
• The tender includes modifications to the wharf and the construction of a fixed ramp to move vehicles on and off the ferry, which is scheduled to arrive in the province 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 06 09                             2:10 p.m.