Road Safety Experts Conducting Review

Internationally respected and experienced Opus International is conducting a safety review of the Cobequid Pass.

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Murray Scott ordered the review after a large number of vehicles were stranded on the highway during a recent storm.

"We've moved quickly to address the communication and co-ordination issues that contributed to this situation, and we're pleased to have a team of internationally renowned road-safety experts to conduct this important review," said Mr. Scott. "They have done similar reviews on other highways and I look forward to receiving their recommendations to improve winter safety on the Cobequid Pass."

Opus is reviewing and analyzing information including, environmental conditions, traffic volumes, the percentage of trucks, snow-clearing operations and weather patterns. Geographic features that influence safety performance, such as challenging horizontal curves and vertical grades, will be analyzed. Signage and pavement markings are also being reviewed to identify the location, function and conditions of traffic-control devices.

The information will be used to identify possible operation and maintenance improvements, options for notifying and responding to significant incidents and weather events, and communication with road users. Traveller information systems, possible rest areas and other options will also examined. Opus is expected to submit a report in mid-December.

In addition to the review, immediate steps have been taken, including putting CB radios on plows on the Cobequid Pass and adding signs that will inform motorists of adverse weather. Temporary digital message signs will be installed by the end of the week. Permanent signs have been ordered. Emergency kits are also being ordered, to be placed in strategic areas along the Cobequid Pass.

Earlier this week, Mr. Scott and Carolyn Bolivar-Getson, Minister of Emergency Management, met with representatives from RCMP, Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, Nova Scotia Power, Emergency Health Services, volunteer fire departments and municipal police to review the storm incident and discuss strategies for improvements.