Tender Call: Highway 125 Twinning

The tender to complete the twinning of Highway 125 from Highway 105 to Leitches Creek, Cape Breton Co., will be called Wednesday, March 31, announced Clifford Huskilson, Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

"Investment in our 100-series highways is essential for moving people and goods safely," said Mr. Huskilson. "This particular highway construction project at North Sydney is no exception. We want to see it completed and open for traffic this fall."

The tender for this 8.9-kilometre section of highway calls for gravelling, paving and completion of environmental protection.

Started in 1997, the federal-provincial cost-shared project is one of the last to be funded under the Strategic Highway Improvement Program. About $13 million, including this contract, will be spent on the Highway 125 project.

"Investment in our transportation infrastructure is needed now," said Mr. Huskilson. "This is one example of our commitment to building a solid infrastructure for a strong future in Cape Breton and Nova Scotia."

Preservation of the watershed area at Pottle Lake is a significant component of the construction. Protective measures including installation of impermeable berms and guardrail system will be completed, providing additional protection to the Pottle Lake watershed.

This particular section is the main highway connecting Sydney Mines, North Sydney and Sydney. Transportation and Public Works expects the new roadway will be open in early November.