Russell Makes Case for Highway Money

The provincial government's campaign for increased federal funding for Nova Scotia highways went to Ottawa on Monday. Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works, met with David Collenette, the federal Minister of Transport.

"We had a very cordial discussion," said Mr. Russell. "I told him that we have some urgent priorities for our province's infrastructure, especially our highways. And I said it is absolutely crucial for Ottawa to provide its fair share."

Mr. Russell said the main goal of the meeting was to illustrate the need for long overdue federal support for the twinning of Highway 101. The minister outlined the compelling reasons for a divided highway including the dramatic rise in traffic on the road and the unacceptable number of tragic, head-on collisions.

"Twinning the 101 is a real priority for this government and for many Nova Scotians," said Mr. Russell. "I conveyed that to the minister and he expressed his support for a new infrastructure program. I am still optimistic that a new program might be in the federal budget at the end of the month. But Mr. Collenette would not confirm or announce any figures."

Mr. Russell also raised several other provincial transportation issues in the meeting with Mr. Collenette. They spoke about the importance of the Port of Halifax and expanding ferry capacity from North Sydney to Newfoundland. As well, Mr. Russell stressed the desire to increase air traffic into airports in the province.