Rubber to Hit Road in Pictou County

Nova Scotians may be test-driving a new type of paving project this summer.

A mix of recycled rubber and asphalt is expected to be laid down on the Granton Road in Pictou County this year as part of a 3.3 kilometre pilot project put forward by Nova Scotia's Department of Transportation and Public Works and Michelin Tire of Canada.

"We are looking for new and innovative ways to make our roads stronger and to reuse materials readily available," said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public works. "This is just one more way that we are building Nova Scotia's future and investing in our province."

"Michelin is very pleased to work with the Department of Transportation and Public Works in bringing rubberized asphalt to Nova Scotia roads," said Doug Cassidy, Michelin Granton plant manager. "It's a significant environmental project that could make a big difference for Nova Scotians."

Michelin will contribute to costs associated with the rubberizing of the asphalt including the recycled rubber, consultants and specialized equipment; the government of Nova Scotia will pay for the bulk of the contract.

The end product is expected to be more durable than conventional asphalt treatment, and better able to withstand cracking. This will be the first use of rubberized asphalt on provincial roads. The product is used across North America.

A tender for the paving contract was advertised today, March 10. It closes Friday, April 2. Work is to be completed by Aug. 31.