This largest phase of the extension takes place from North River to Clyde River, and is set for completion in the fall of 2019.
The province says the new 7.8-kilometre stretch of highway will improve driver safety, stimulate the economy and create a “main street” for the Town of Cornwall. With less traffic, fewer intersections and more consistent speed limits, Cornwall residents will have easier access to businesses and a safer community.
“The restricted access along the existing Trans-Canada Highway has limited developments and forced undesirable traffic through our residential areas,” said Dean Lewis, planning and development officer for Cornwall.
“The realignment project will allow the current highway to change to a main street with reduced speed limits, enhanced pedestrian safety and intersections that will allow better connectivity between the north and south portions of the town.”
Cornwall is Prince Edward Island’s fourth-largest community, and has grown at almost twice the national rate. In 2011, the town had a population of 5,162, representing an increase of 10.4 per cent from 2006, compared to the national average of 5.9 per cent growth.
The final phase of construction includes:
• Realigning the Trans-Canada Highway from North River to Clyde River (including a new bridge over the Clyde River)
• Overpasses for Linwood, Bannockburn and Baltic roads
• A diamond interchange at the Cornwall Road
• An interchange at the connection of the existing Trans-Canada Highway in Clyde River
• The safety of residents will improve by redirecting heavy truck and commuter traffic onto a limited-access road away from children, students, pedestrians and cyclists
• The project will also improve access to facilities such as the Terry Fox Sports Centre, APM Centre and Cornwall Industrial Park
