VILLE DE SAGUENAY, Quebec, May 7, 2004 - The Right Honourable Paul Martin, Prime Minister of Canada, today announced that the Governments of Canada and Quebec have signed an agreement in principle detailing their respective government's commitment to undertake work to twin Highway 175, which connects Quebec City with Ville de Saguenay. The Government of Canada's contribution will come from the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund and will account for half of the costs of the first phase, up to a maximum of $262.5 million. The Governments of Quebec and Canada have agreed that the financing options of a second phase will be considered based on the outcome of the request for proposal process. "The long-awaited twinning of Highway 175 will stimulate the economic and tourist development of the Saguenay - Lac-St-Jean region," said Prime Minister Martin. "Thanks to the additional lanes, traveling between this region and Quebec City will be that much easier, faster, less expensive and safer." "The work on Highway 175 is a priority for the residents of the Saguenay - Lac-St-Jean who see an opportunity to increase trade opportunities, enhance the flow of traffic and goods, and improve safety for travelers going between Quebec City and the Saguenay - Lac-St-Jean region" added Saguenay-Le Fjord MP André Harvey. Through the Canada Strategic Infrastructure Fund (CSIF), the Government of Canada, the Province of Quebec and municipal governments, as well as the private sector, work to meet strategic infrastructure needs in the province. The CSIF supports large-scale strategic infrastructure projects that improve quality of life and further sustainable growth across Canada. The fund will help make Canada a world leader in developing vibrant, creative and prosperous cities and communities. Since 1994, the Government of Canada is contributing $12 billion to over 20,000 infrastructure projects in Canada's communities. This will help leverage over $30 billion from all partners. - 30 - Contacts: PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
