MONTREAL, Que. — A group of government and transportation partners are slated to pay out $224 million towards the Dorval interchange redevelopment project, which includes the Dorval traffic circle and the Highway 20 and 520 interchange.

The project is designed to solve congestion problems in the Dorval interchange by creating direct links between the airport and highways 20 and 520, and between these two highways. Also included in the redevelopment is the northward extension of Dorval Avenue, and the development of safer and more user-friendly networks for pedestrians and cyclists. The project will also pave the way for a future railway shuttle between downtown, the airport and the West Island.

“After 15 years of discussions, I am very happy about the announcement today confirming the beginning of the redevelopment of the Dorval interchange,” said Edgar Rouleau, Mayor of Dorval. “The increase in traffic and the disrepair of our infrastructure call for major changes. This is wonderful news for the citizens of the City of Dorval, who will see the elimination of traffic congestion and long delays at rush hour. These improvements will facilitate their mobility, not only by car but also on foot and by bicycle. We greatly appreciate the participation of the federal and provincial governments, and of our local partners.”

The breakdown of investment will see an $89 million contribution from Transports Québec, $50 million from the federal government, , $40 million from Ville de Montréal, $20 million from Aéroports de Montréal, and $20 million from Public Transit Capital Trust 2008.

The five-phase redevelopment will begin with the reconstruction of eight overpasses, including those serving as the direct links between the airport and Highway 20 to and from downtown. The work will continue until 2013, when construction of the new interchange should be complete, according to sources.