More than 400 hectares of brush along provincial highways will be cleared this fall to increase highway safety.
The Department of Transportation and Works is spending about $2 million for brush clearing this year, according to a prepared release from the department.
Brush clearing makes it easier for motorists to spot animals near the highway, increases visibility in areas with turns and hills, provides more space for snow removal and makes highway signs easier to see.
Areas identified for brush clearing were determined based on factors such as traffic volumes, visibility and moose-vehicle collision rates.
The Department of Transportation and Works has also provided a grant of $27,500 again this year to assist the Save Our People Action Committee in its efforts to increase advertising on radio and to operate the moose awareness hotline: 1-855-896-6673.
“While we increase highway safety through programs like brush clearing, we also encourage all motorists to drive responsibly and scan sides of highway when travelling,” read the prepared statement from Transportation and Works Minister Steve Crocker.
For advice on how to avoid moose-vehicle collisions and other tools to prepare for safe highway driving, visit www.roads.gov.nl.ca.
Brush cutting in western Newfoundland:
- Route 1: Trans-Canada Highway between Exit 2 to Stephenville and Port aux Basques.
- Route 403: Flat Bay Road.
- Route 420: White Bay South Highway (various sections)
- Route 430: Northern Peninsula Highway (sections between St. Anthony and Saunders Mill)
- Route 430-21: Loop Cow Head Road.
- Route 432: Main Brook Highway.
- Route 460: White's Road / Hansen Memorial Highway / Kippens Road / Port au Port Highway.
- Route 280: Burgeo Highway.
Source: Department of Transportation and Works
