Budget Bulletin: Investing In Our Roads, Bridges, and Ferries

FINANCE--Budget Bulletin: Investing In Our Roads, Bridges, and Ferries

For the fourth consecutive year, the province is increasing its capital investment in roads, bridges, and ferries across Nova Scotia, with $106.2 million, an increase of $16 million over the previous year.

The province will continue to dedicate all funds raised by last year's two-cent-per-litre tax increase to capital road construction. We estimate that this will generate approximately $25 million this year to reinvest in safer, better roads throughout Nova Scotia.

Transportation is one of the keys to economic prosperity and community development in Nova Scotia. A strong transportation network sets the stage for the safe movement of people and goods. It also supports regional, national, and international trade.

Benefits from this year's capital program will be seen across the province. For example: a new bridge in Margaree Harbour, a repaving project on Highway 103 in Shelburne County, and the strengthening of Trunk 7 along the Eastern Shore. With an eye to the future, the province will continue to purchase land required for new highway improvements.

Steel-truss bridges will also receive more attention with a dedicated $4 million in capital funds for 2003-04. The province will soon announce details of a steel-truss bridge renewal program to repair or replace many of our older bridges. One of the ferries in the provincial fleet -- the Joshua Slocum -- will be replaced.

There is also money for maintenance, especially on local roads. The Road Improvement Money program (former Rural Impact Mitigation program) will invest $10 million in rural roads across the province. This will mean improved road shoulders and ditches, as well as asphalt patching and gravel upgrading.

NOTE: For further 2003-04 budget information, visit the Department of Finance Web site at www.gov.ns.ca/finance .