April 18, 2005 Sydney, Nova Scotia Pedestrians will have access to a safer crossing of one of Sydney's busiest streets thanks to a $445,584 project funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program. The project includes the design and construction of phase 2 of a pedway under Kings Road, which will link the waterfront boardwalk to Wentworth Park. The construction will include the installation of a large culvert-type structure, which will allow accessibility to both sides of Kings Road. Phase one of this project was also funded through the infrastructure program. Joint funding for this project was announced today by the federal and provincial governments. "Safe transportation is crucial to building strong communities and improving our quality of life," said Mark Eyking, Member of Parliament for Sydney-Victoria, on behalf of the Honourable Joseph McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. "Through the infrastructure program, the Government of Canada is investing in projects like the King's Road pedway to improve community infrastructure and support long-term growth." "Building safer communities and stronger infrastructure is a provincial priority," said Energy Minister Cecil Clark, on behalf of Barry Barnet, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We've already made Kings Road better for motorists, now we're helping to make it safer for pedestrians." The program supports long term economic growth, community infrastructure improvements and environmental enhancements. The federal-provincial share of the project totals $297,056. CBRM will fund the balance of the project. To date, more than $204 million has been invested in 140 projects through the program, and additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval. The six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the Program's management committee. - 30 - For further information contact: Valérie Poulin Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Joseph McGuire Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 613-941-7241 David Harrigan Media Relations Officer Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 902-426-4238 Deborah Bayer Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Secretariat 902-424-0112
