OTTAWA, Ont. — Provincial and federal governments will share a joint commitment of $61 million towards the twinning of sections of Highway 101 and Highway 104.

“Securing more federal funding to improve Nova Scotia highways has been a priority of our government since day one,” says Premier John Hamm. “Better highways mean safer travel for Nova Scotians and visitors to our province. Better highways are an important investment in our economy.”

The Government of Canada’s $30.5-million contribution to these projects will be made through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (SHIP). The Government of Nova Scotia will match this contribution. Both governments have agreed to continue to examine how best to support the completion of these twinning projects.

“The Government of Canada recognizes that the safe and efficient movement of people and goods is critical to our economy and to the quality of life of Canadians,” stated federal Transport Minister, David Collenette. ” Our government is committed to working in partnership with other levels of government to deliver much-needed transportation improvements throughout Canada.”

The highway twinning will be an 8-km section of Highway 104 between New Glasgow and Pine Tree Road, as well as the twinning of two sections of Highways 101 between Falmouth and Avonport, and St.Croix and Wentworth Road. The work on Highway 101 will also include the construction of three new grade separations at Exit 25 near Joggins, at Exit 32, near Hectanooga Road, and at Brooklyn Road, in Yarmouth.