$7-million interchange to be built for growing First Nation community

The Membertou First Nation’s economy and population are growing, and so is the infrastructure to accommodate them.

Thanks to a joint funding effort between the Government of Canada, Province of Nova Scotia and Membertou Band, a $7-million interchange will be built on Highway 125 in Cape Breton, N.S. that will connect the lands of Membertou First Nation.

The federal and provincial governments each contributed $3 million towards the project, while the Membertou Band contributed $1 million.

Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada John Duncan and Membertou Band Chief Terrance Paul made the announcement on Aug. 15.

Dexter said the interchange will improve community connections and the economy by bringing together people, services and businesses on both sides of Membertou First Nation.

The design, engineering and construction of the bridge span and ramps will start in September with an expected completion date of December 2013.