June 21, 2011 * Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal [to May 2015]The largest road construction project of the 2011 season begins today as crews start work on a one-kilometre section of Route 2 in Bristol, says Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Ron MacKinley. “The Bristol project represents a key milestone in the province’s efforts to improve the overall condition of Veterans Memorial Highway,” said Minister MacKinley. “It is the last section of our main intra-provincial route without paved shoulders.” The $2.2 million Build PEI initiative is expected to be complete in the early fall. New turning lanes will be built for vehicles entering St. Peter’s Harbour Road and Settlement Road, and new storm sewers will be installed to better direct water away from the road surface. “Since 2007 the provincial government has invested close to $42 million in improvements to Veteran’s Memorial Highway,” said Minister MacKinley. “This major investment has greatly improved the safety and efficiency of the Island’s main highway, which benefits all road users.” This year $37 million has been allocated in the capital budget for road and bridge construction across the province. Media Contact: Alf Blanchard