The Department of Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy has presented residents of the Bedeque area with proposed changes to improve safety at intersections along Route 1A in Central Bedeque, says Minister Paula Biggar.
“Bedeque Council was one of the first municipal governments I met with after becoming minister last summer. They have been advocates for improvements to these intersections and have worked with us in developing ways to make these intersections safer,” said Minister Biggar.
Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy intends to improve two intersections located at: Route 1A and Route 10 and at Route 1A, Dunk River Road and Callbeck Street.
The project involves realigning the intersection of Route 1A and Route 10 in order to create a T intersection that will reduce risks of collisions.
The Department also proposes constructing a left turn lane on Route 1A which will access the Dunk River Road (Route 171). This construction will allow turning vehicles a dedicated lane, reducing risks of rear end collisions.
Officials of TIE held a public meeting in Bedeque Tuesday night to allow residents to view the proposed new intersections.
Ron Rayner, chairperson of the Municipality of Bedeque and Area, said he is optimistic that the designs proposed Tuesday, along with input from area residents, will lead to improved highway safety in his community.
“Job one has to be the safety of the traveling public. We’ve had too many people die or get injured on the road around here. We want a solution that’s going to improve things and work for the long term,” he said.
“The department and Minister Biggar have been great to listen and work with us.”
Work is estimated to last 6-8 weeks, and could be completed in the 2016 construction season.