Kings Road To Get $8-million Facelift
SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--Kings Road To Get $8-million Facelift
One of Sydney's main streets, Kings Road, will be significantly improved thanks to an $8-million project funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.
Joint federal-provincial funding of $5,364,736 was announced today, March 3, by Cecil Clarke, Minister of Economic Development, on behalf of Peter Christie, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations, and by Mark Eyking, member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, on behalf of Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) will fund the $2,682,370 balance upon formal acceptance of the agreement.
"This investment in the Kings Road project is an excellent example of how the Nova Scotia government is helping our communities plan for the future and build safer communities and stronger infrastructure," said Mr. Clarke. "When this project is completed, residents of the Sydney area will realize an immediate improvement to one of their major streets."
The program is designed to invest in the infrastructure needs of Nova Scotia communities through the support of long-term economic growth, community infrastructure improvements, environmental enhancements and the building of 21st century infrastructure through better technologies, new approaches, and best practices.
"The government of Canada is committed to building strong communities and enhancing our quality of life," said Mr. Eyking. "Through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program we are investing in projects like the Kings Road reconstruction, that improve community infrastructure, and support long-term growth."
The project involves the design and reconstruction of 2.7 kilometres of Kings Road between Trunk 125 and downtown Sydney. The project will improve the alignment and grades, increase the number of lanes, and install computerized vehicle-actuated traffic lights. Also included is the upgrading of water, sanitary and storm water lines along the street. The improvement of this major access route will ensure a safer, more efficient movement of traffic.
The completion of this project "will have a huge impact on Sydney's traffic," said CBRM Mayor John Morgan. "Not only will Kings Road be easier and safer to navigate, but the improvements may well facilitate increased private sector investment and economic activity."
This is one of a series of approval announcements for projects under the program. To date, 93 projects have been approved, representing an investment of more than $147 million. Additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval.
The $195 million, six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.