News release

Government Supports Sustainable Transportation in Southwestern Nova Scotia

Energy (June 2002 - July 2018)

Government is supporting two sustainable transportation projects in Southwestern Nova Scotia.

Municipal Affairs Minister Zach Churchill, on behalf of Energy Minister Michel Samson, announced funding at an event today, Oct. 2, in Yarmouth. Projects led by the Town of Yarmouth and the Municipality of Clare both received funding through the province's sustainable transportation grant program, Connect2.

"Investments in sustainable transportation promote active living and help make our communities more vibrant," said Mr. Churchill. "Both of these important projects are community driven by dedicated staff and volunteers, and government is pleased to come to the table as a partner."

Government is providing $50,000 to the Town of Yarmouth to install a crossing light on Starrs Road at the junction with the Maud Lewis Trail, a well-used multi-use path connecting several community hubs in Yarmouth.

"Safety is a top priority for us as we continue to expand and promote the Maud Lewis Trail in Yarmouth," said Yarmouth Mayor Pam Mood. "This crossing light will connect the trail to our business district, and make it safer and more accessible for residents and visitors."

Mr. Churchill also announced a $2,700 grant to the Municipality of Clare to install 11 bicycle racks throughout the municipality and encourage private businesses to do the same.

"The Municipality of Clare has the goal of becoming more bike and walking friendly and as part of our active transportation plan, we want to encourage more people to choose those options whenever possible," said Ronnie LeBlanc, warden, Municipality of Clare. "This grant from the province gives us an added incentive in installing 11 bike racks, and we hope other local businesses and organizations will follow suit."

Connect2, launched in May, aims to create and promote active transportation options for trips of two kilometres or less between community hubs in rural and urban parts of the province.

More projects will be announced in the coming weeks, and all will be completed by March 10. For more information, visit novascotia.ca/sustainabletransportation/ .