Harper government announces new project for job-creating and export-enhancing infrastructure along BC's Highway 91

OTTAWA, March 28, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Ed Fast, Canada's Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today announced funding for the Highway 91 and 72^nd Avenue Interchange project in Delta, British Columbia, further bolstering Canada's Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI) and its world-class export facilitation and competitive advantages.

"In order to create jobs, growth and prosperity across Canada, our government is committed to investing in projects that help Canadian exporters reach new, fast-growing markets throughout the Asia-Pacific region," said Minister Fast.  "This new interchange along Highway 91 will help relieve congestion and allow for the free flow of goods, services and people."

The Harper government is committing significant funding (up to $10 million) toward this interchange.  The replacement of the at-grade crossing with an interchange will minimize the environmental impact of congestion and address current and future transportation needs. The Highway 91 corridor is a key element of the Lower Mainland's major road network and a major trade corridor directly linked to Asia-Pacific trade.

"This project is great news for the people of Delta," said the Honourable Kerry-Lynne D. Findlay, Member of Parliament for Delta-Richmond East, and Associate Minister of National Defence. "Once complete, the new interchange will create jobs and prosperity for local residents while improving safety for all travellers on this important stretch of highway."

"As the gateway to the Asia Pacific, we're continuing to make vital investments in infrastructure to get our goods to market more efficiently and safely," said B.C. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Mary Polak. "Our funding commitment is a major step toward bringing this project to fruition.  Families and commuters will also benefit from the smoother flow of traffic that an interchange will bring."

The total estimated cost of the project is $30 million with the Government of Canada contributing up to $10 million through its APGCI Transportation Infrastructure Fund, the Government of British Columbia contributing $10 million and the remaining $10 million to be funded through local contributions.

Investments in the APGCI have positioned Canada as the "Gateway of Choice" between Asia and North America, and the initiative is a key element of the Harper government's pro-trade plan to open new markets that increase Canadian exports and create jobs and prosperity.  In fact, Canada's west coast ports are more than two days closer to Asian markets than other ports in North America.  To date, the federal government has invested in infrastructure projects, valued at over $3.5 billion, with federal investments of $1.4 billion, in partnership with all four western provinces, municipalities and the private sector.

SOURCE: Transport Canada

Rudy Husny
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and
Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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