News
Feds commit to improvements at Wabush Airport
Sept. 28, 2011, Wabush, N.L. - The Honourable Peter Penashue, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, and Regional Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador announced today the Wabush Airport will benefit from over$2 million in infrastructure improvements.
September 28, 2011 By Carey Fredericks
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities.
"Wabush airport is experiencing a significant rise in passenger and aircraft movements as a result of increased mining and exploration activity in the region," said Minister Penashue. "This investment demonstrates the Government of Canada's continued support to regional communities and to the development of local economies. The Wabush Airport plays a vital role in supporting this development."
Infrastructure improvements to the airport include a $1.7 million roof restoration for the Air Terminal and Maintenance Buildings. The restoration work is underway and is expected to be completed by early fall 2011.
In addition, this investment will contribute to the South Airport Terminal Building parking upgrade. A contract for $436K was recently awarded to H.J. O'Connell Construction Ltd. for this work that is expected to begin in September and that will include additional electrically-serviced parking spaces.
"Given the expansion of the mining and exploration industries in Western Labrador, keeping this airport in top shape is vital," stated the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minsiter of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the regions of Quebec. "This investment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the Wabush Airport, it will make sure it continues to meet the needs of the people and businesses of Western Labrador for years to come."
The Wabush Airport is a regional/local airport located in the southwest corner of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is owned and operated by TransportCanada. The principal communities served by Wabush Airport are Wabush, Labrador City and Fermont, Quebec. Four airlines have regular flights in and out of Wabush.
While the restoration work is on-going, necessary measures will be taken to minimize the impact on the airport's regular activities.
