SYDNEY, N.S. — The feds have teamed up with the province of Nova Scotia to provide $7.2 million in Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program (SHIP) funding for Hwy. 125.

Under the program, the province and the federal government will cost-share the twinning of the highway.

"Twinning this portion of Hwy. 125 is an important step in helping Nova Scotia improve its roads. It will benefit the people of Nova Scotia, since residents and goods will be able to travel more efficiently within the province," says Robert Thibault, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, who was on hand representing federal Transport Minister, David Collenette.

"Through the Strategic Highway Infrastructure Program, the Government of Canada is once again demonstrating its commitment to improving Canada’s highways," adds Collenette. "This project will enhance safety and ease congestion on this well-travelled section of the National Highway System."

A 5.4-kilometre stretch of the highway will be twinned between Balls Creek and Coxheath Road near the Sydney River. Four ramps will be added at the Coxheath Road underpass and the eastbound and westbound lanes will be widened. Construction is expected to wrap up in the fall of 2005.

"This investment will mean a safer, more efficient Hwy. 125 that will make it easier for people to get to and from work and school, and to make other connections to communities throughout Cape Breton," says Cecil Clarke, who was at the announcement on behalf of Nova Scotia’s Transportation and Public Works Department.