Repairing Big Island Road

Transportation and Public Works staff are repairing a road in Pictou County that was seriously damaged by the storm surge during the blizzard this week.

Sand, boulders, and chunks of asphalt are being removed from the road to Big Island, Pictou Co., and a rough trail has been pushed through the debris to allow light trucks and emergency vehicles to pass.

But Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell said motorists should use the road only if absolutely necessary.

"There is substantial damage to the roadway and we're working to make a safe roadbed for travellers this winter," the minister said.

An estimated 1,500 metres of roadway needs to be rebuilt. Gravel will be used to rebuild the road to a maintainable standard for winter.