Highway Naming Commemorates 60-year Reign

Nova Scotia drivers are now travelling a royal road after a section of Highway 106 in Pictou County was named Jubilee Highway today, Dec. 21, in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee.

"The highway dedication recognizes Her Majesty's many years of service and commitment to our country," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "This past year has been an historic anniversary that has touched so many Nova Scotians and inspired them to help make our province a better place to live, work and raise a family."

The highway naming is one of a number of legacy activities across the province, including Diamond Jubilee medal ceremonies recognizing more the 200 Nova Scotians, 60 scholarships for students and an online education learning tool.

Medal recipients were honoured for their outstanding citizenship, volunteerism and service to their community.

The Monarchist League of Canada, Northumberland Branch, requested the highway naming.

"I had the great pleasure of seeing Her Majesty when she visited our province two years ago," said Olive Pastor, chair, Northumberland Branch, Monarchist League of Canada. "She is an enduring symbol of grace and strength. Her Diamond Jubilee is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate her service to our country."

Jubilee Highway is important for tourist travel between the province and Prince Edward Island. The highway, which begins at exit 22 and ends at the P.E.I. ferry, serves as one of the entrances to Nova Scotia.

As a member of the commonwealth, Canada has been visited 22 times by her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, including five visits to Nova Scotia, most recently in 2010.