Federal and N.S. governments invest $5.8M in provincial cycling routes

An image indicating a bike lane in Halifax is seen on Oct. 29, 2024. (CTV Atlantic/Joel LeBlanc)

The federal and Nova Scotia governments are spending millions on a province-wide project to create a continuous network of cycling routes. The investment, which was announced Tuesday, will expand and upgrade parts of the cycling route.

The two governments are spending a combined $5.8 million to improve three sections of the Nova Scotia Blue Route.

The sections include:

• section 1: Trunk 1 from Windsor town line to Lighthouse Road
• section 2: Ferry Road from Trunk 6 to 300 metres south of Gulf Shore Road (various sections)
• section 3: Route 376 from Route 256 to Pictou Roundabout

“When we invest in projects like the Nova Scotia Blue Route, we’re not just creating bike paths, we’re building stronger, healthier communities,” said Sean Fraser, member of parliament for Central Nova. “This initiative makes it safer and easier for people to choose active transportation, helping reduce pollution and improve quality of life. It’s a great example of how smart investments in sustainability can make a real difference in the lives of Nova Scotians.”

The federal government is spending $3,148,000 through the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The provincial government is adding $2,678,100 to the project.

The project has made improvements to shoulders and surfaces in the three sections, bringing the cycling network closer to completion.

“Investments in the Nova Scotia Blue Route make it possible for Nova Scotians and visitors alike to explore our beautiful province by bicycle,” said Kody Blois, parliamentary secretary to the prime minister and member of parliament for Kings–Hants. “When we invest in projects like this, we are encouraging active transportation, reducing our carbon footprint and increasing the opportunities for movement in our everyday lives, resulting in stronger and healthier communities.”

The investment is part of the federal government’s efforts to create more jobs and strengthen local economies through the Atlantic Growth Strategy.

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