No. H044/01
For release April 3, 2001
TRANSPORT MINISTER
ANNOUNCES START OF NEGOTIATIONS
ON THE STRATEGIC HIGHWAY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
OTTAWA Transport Minister David Collenette today announced the start
of negotiations with the provinces and territories on the Strategic Highway
Infrastructure Program (SHIP). In the February 2000 Budget Speech, the Government
of Canada committed to improve the economy and the quality of life for Canadians
by investing $600 million over four years on highway infrastructure across Canada.
"Highway infrastructure is critical to Canadas ability to safely
and efficiently transport people and goods, and to compete in the North American
economy," said Mr. Collenette. "This program builds upon the successful
partnerships we have developed with other levels of government and the private
sector under previous programs."
Transport Canada will begin negotiating immediately with the provinces and
territories to identify which highway projects will be considered a priority
for funding. This will include continued twinning of parts of the Trans-Canada
Highway, widening of highways, and construction of interchanges. All projects
of this nature need immediate attention as a result of growing traffic, increasing
trade, and the need for safety-related improvements.
"The funds identified under SHIP will also advance the deployment of Intelligent
Transportation Systems across Canada and fund improvements to border crossings,"
added Mr. Collenette.
Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) includes applications such as advanced
systems for traveller information, traffic management, public transport, commercial
vehicle operations, emergency response management, and vehicle safety. Improvements
to border crossings are necessary to better manage the increasing amount of
cross-border traffic and make improvements at several major crossings.
Funding for this program was provided for in the February 2000 Budget and is
therefore built into the existing financial framework.
– 30 –
Contact:
Anthony Polci,
Director of Communications,
Office of the Minister of Transport, Ottawa,
(613) 991-0700
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