Canada and Nova Scotia to invest in Paqtnkek Interchange project

The Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia have agreed to invest in the Highway 104 Paqtnkek Interchange project in a bid to build better transportation corridors.

The interchange project will receive a total of C$15.3m ($12.1m) in federal-provincial funding.

More than C$6.4m ($5.06) will be offered by the federal government through the Building Canada Fund-Major Infrastructure Component (BCF-MIC), while the Government of Nova Scotia will offer C$8.9 ($7.04m).

Set to be carried out in partnership with the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation, the collaborative project will feature construction of a large diamond interchange, including new north and south connector roads and highway underpass.

Member of Parliament for Cape Breton Canso Rodger Cuzner said: “The Government of Canada is working in close partnership with the province of Nova Scotia to ensure we make smart infrastructure investments that help grow the economy, promote sustainable development and increase public safety.

"By supporting the development of important transportation infrastructures, like Highway 104 and the Paqtnkek Interchange, we help create increased opportunities for Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation and area residents."

“By supporting the development of important transportation infrastructures, like Highway 104 and the Paqtnkek Interchange, we help create increased opportunities for Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation and area residents.”

The project is expected to improve travel times for residents of the Paqtnkek community, as well as enhance the safety of commuters travelling to and from Highway 104.

Additionally, the new interchange will provide improved 100 Series highway access to Reserve lands that were previously disconnected from the highway.

Nova Scotia Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Lloyd Hines said: “Today’s provincial and federal investment will help improve safe access to the Paqtnkek reserve.

“The new interchange will also create economic opportunities by providing access to the land for residential expansion and commercial development.”