ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — More than 400 hectares of brush along provincial highways will be cleared this fall to increase highway safety, a news release states.
About $2 million was budgeted for brush clearing in 2019. Over the last two years, the province’s Department of Transportation and Works has spent more than $4 million in brush clearing, resulting in more than 800 hectares cleared.
“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,” the release states. “Areas identified for brush clearing were determined based on factors such as traffic volumes, visibility and moose-vehicle collision rates.”
The department also provided a grant of $27,500 again this year to assist the Save Our People Action Committee (SOPAC) in its efforts to increase advertising on radio and to operate the moose awareness hotline (1-855-896-6673).
For advice on how to avoid moose-vehicle collisions and other tools to prepare for safe highway driving, visit www.roads.gov.nl.ca.
“While we increase highway safety, we also encourage all motorists to drive responsibly and scan sides of the highway when travelling,” Transportation and Works Minister Steve Crocker stated.
