New Lanes on Highway 125

Cape Breton County residents should see clear signs of highway improvements this winter.

Tenders were announced this week to complete the clearing of trees on a six-kilometre section of Highway 125 between Balls Creek and Sydney River.

"This winter clearing work is an important step in building a stronger road network in Cape Breton County," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell. "It's good news for local residents and a key to future prosperity for the region."

The work will prepare the site for the start of construction of new twinned lanes on Highway 125 from Exit 4 to Exit 6. The construction of the new lanes will also include a new interchange at the Coxheath Road and widening of the existing divided highway near Sydney River.

The estimated $13-million project is part of the Strategic Highways Infrastructure Program which is cost shared between the province and the federal government. The new four-lane highway is expected to be completed in the fall of 2005.