Traffic Volumes Up, Fatalities Down

Traffic volumes are up and fatalities are down on the Cobequid Pass.

In the five years since the road opened, there have been eight fatalities on the pass and one on Trunk 4. That compares with 50 traffic fatalities on Trunk 4 in the 10 years before the Cobequid Pass, or Highway 104 Western Alignment, was built. Daily traffic volume on the roads has increased to about 9,500 from about 7,500 in 1996.

The numbers were released today by Transportation and Public Works Minister Michael Baker in response to the Auditor General's report.

"There's no question that this four-lane highway has improved safety for the travelling public," said Mr. Baker. "We are always looking at the numbers, and they are heading in the right direction."

The minister said staff keep careful track of fatality and collision statistics. However, traffic engineers typically require 10 years of data before tackling an in-depth safety study.

"It appears self-evident that the Cobequid Pass road has passed the test of handling high traffic volumes with flying colours," said Mr. Baker.

As for concerns about accountability, the minister said he would continue the tradition of his predecessor, Ron Russell, and table the Western Alignment Corporation's annual report in the legislature.

"There's a lot of good information in the Auditor General's report, and I will review it closely," said Mr. Baker. "It's also important to note that the Auditor General concluded by saying the Corporation is well run and efficient."