News release

Provincial, Federal Governments Invest $2.79-million in Valley-Area Highway Projects

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (Oct. 2007 - Feb. 2021)

Nova Scotia drivers will soon benefit from improved highways thanks to a $2.79-million joint investment by the provincial and federal governments.

Vicki Conrad, ministerial assistant, on behalf of Bill Estabrooks, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, and MP Greg Kerr, on behalf of federal Transport and Infrastructure Minister John Baird, announced the funding today, Feb. 19, for the two highway improvement projects.

"With today's announcement, every dollar under the infrastructure stimulus program has been committed to roads and other important infrastructure projects," said Ms. Conrad. "Together with our provincial contributions, these investments are delivering much needed infrastructure improvements across Nova Scotia."

"Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the government of Canada is working to ensure that the province of Nova Scotia emerges strong from this period of economic recovery," said Mr. Kerr. "As we enter the second phase of this plan, government will continue the rapid implementation of the plan and roll out the remaining stimulus projects across the country. At the same time, we are building a strong foundation for job creation and economic growth in the future."

The projects will include construction of a left-turning lane and 2.3 kilometres repaving on Route 303, from Highway 101 at Exit 26, north to the Digby town line, and repair and repaving on Highway 101 from the Annapolis-Digby County line to the west end of Victoria Bridge at Smith's Cove. These upgrades and rehabilitation projects will improve safety, security and travel times for Nova Scotia drivers.

Nova Scotia is contributing $1.39 million to the projects, with Canada matching the contribution.

Federal financial support comes from the $4-billion, Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, which provides funding to provincial, territorial, municipal and community construction-ready infrastructure projects that can be completed by March 31, 2011.