Transportation and Works April 5, 2007
Government Invests a Further $10 Million in Provincial Roads Government continues to make unprecedented investments in the provincial transportation network, committing an additional $10 million to revitalize roads in Newfoundland and Labrador. The Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Transportation and Works, announced today this new funding will come from the upcoming provincial budget. In January, Minister Hickey confirmed government intends to invest $150 million to improve provincial roads this year, including $60 million for the Provincial Roads Improvement Program. The additional $10 million will be targeted to three main areas: "This increase in funding for provincial roads is a further demonstration of this government’s steadfast commitment to the province’s social and economic development," said Minister Hickey. "Road investments not only provide safer, reliable transportation for local motorists, but also contribute to economic growth by supporting the trucking industry, tourism and other sectors." This is the second year government has made a substantial investment of at least $60 million in the Provincial Roads Improvement Program. Once again, pre-approval of funding has been given before the construction season begins which enables work to commence and be completed earlier than in previous years. Dan Spracklin, president of the Newfoundland and Labrador Road Builders and Heavy Civil Association, said: "Our association is quite pleased with the initiatives undertaken by the Williams government to improve the state of the roads in our province. A commitment of a further $10 million from government just makes our successful partnership even stronger." Government estimates the Provincial Roads Improvement Program creates approximately 1,200 person years of employment, with 94 per cent of the work being done in rural areas. This is the second year of government’s six-year strategy for infrastructure improvements exceeding $2 billion. -30- Media contact: 2007 04 05 11:50 a.m.
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