Newer, More Efficient Vehicle Fleet

A policy to operate a newer, more efficient fleet of vehicles will save taxpayers millions of dollars and do a better job on the roads, said Transportation and Public Works Minister Clifford Huskilson today.

"We've committed to modernizing the fleet so that our workers have the right tools to do the best job for Nova Scotians," said Mr. Huskilson. "Shifting our focus from constantly maintaining old equipment to fleet renewal means significant cost savings and better service to the public. Older equipment breaks down and that wastes time and money."

The minister said costs to maintain equipment have dropped from $28 million to $22 million since the early 1990s. Those costs include items such as mechanical repairs, fuel, insurance and depreciation. The department operates approximately 1,500 vehicles across the province.

"Newer equipment is much more efficient," said Mr. Huskilson. "Many older trucks are single-purpose vehicles. Our new 08-plows can be spreading sand today and hauling gravel tomorrow. There's efficiency in that flexibility."

The Department of Transportation and Public Works spends approximately $7 million annually on new equipment. The department's road maintenance budget for summer and winter operations has been raised to $78.4 million, $6.7 million more than the budget for 1997-98.

"I have 2,000 people working in this department who are dedicated to delivering the best possible service. They clear 26,000 kilometres of road. They pave, patch, salt and sand. You can't do that work by hand." said Mr. Huskilson. "Fleet renewal is just one way I can give them better tools to do their jobs."