The Government of Nova Scotia announced a new 10-kilometre section of twinned Highway 104 over Weaver’s Mountain is now open to traffic .
Another two-kilometres of brand new four-lane, divided highway to James River has also been finished. It is part of a larger project that will see Highway 104 twinned from the New Brunswick border to just east of Antigonish.
“Twinned highways help to keep Nova Scotia drivers safe,” said Kim Masland, Minister of Public Works. “Completing this stretch of highway is a significant milestone for the highway 104 twinning project. It’s an exciting time for the hundreds of people working on this project, for communities along this highway and for trade across the country that travels through this important corridor.”
The newly twinned highway 104 (No. 78 on ReNew Canada’s 2023 Top100 Projects report) is expected to be fully open to drivers later this summer.
“The opening of the new section of twinned highways on Highway 104 is a testament to our commitment to prioritize the safety of Canadians and strengthen our supply chain. The National Trade Corridors Fund supports important trade routes across the country, including this crucial corridor in Nova Scotia. The improved infrastructure will not only make travel safer, but also contribute to the efficient flow of goods and services in Canada,” said federal Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra.
The construction cost of the project is $364.3 million, including $274.3 million from the Province and up to $90 million from the Government of Canada’s National Trade Corridors Fund.
“On behalf of all St. FX students, faculty and staff who use the Trans Canada 104 to travel to campus daily, this is very exciting news. The twinning of the highway between Antigonish and New Glasgow creates a safer and shorter commute for everyone. I would like to recognize both the Province and the Federal Government for making this a reality. Also, it’s remarkable to see the hard work completed by construction teams over the past few years. We are very grateful,” said David Graham, vice president Advancement, St. Francis Xavier University.
The project covers about 38 kilometres of highway and includes the construction of two new interchanges, 24 new bridges and environmental enhancements including wildlife corridors and fencing.
Once completed, Dexter Nova Alliance will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of 63 kilometres of highway.
“We are proud to work on a project of this magnitude and with such positive impacts on the future of Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada. This is a major milestone that provides significantly improved safety to this roadway. The progress that this occasion represents is due to the many Nova Scotians working hard every day to bring this project to completion. We’re almost there,” said Ken MacLean, chair, Dexter Nova Alliance GP
Featured image: (Government of Nova Scotia)
