Highway 102 Upgrades to Begin in Bedford, Enhancing Traffic Flow

A construction project set to begin on November 13, 2023, will introduce significant upgrades to Highway 102 in Bedford, Nova Scotia. The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety at the southbound off-ramp leading to Hammonds Plains Road. The project includes the addition of a lane and improvements to visibility, which are expected to expedite traffic flow in an area frequently plagued by backups.

The work will take approximately six weeks to complete, during which the existing off-ramp will be widened to create separate lanes for right and left turns. This modification is designed to reduce blind spots, allowing drivers to better see other vehicles as they exit the highway. According to Public Works Minister Fred Tilley, this short-term project is a crucial step in addressing immediate traffic concerns. “We’re moving on this short-term project to help bring some relief to this busy area faster,” Tilley stated in a recent press release from the Nova Scotia government.

Details of the Construction Schedule

While the exit will remain open most of the time, motorists may experience intermittent delays and temporary closures as construction progresses. Initial work will involve clearing the landscape adjacent to the ramp, followed by blasting operations intended to open up the area for the lane expansion. To minimize disruption during peak hours, blasting is scheduled between 09:00 and 15:00, while paving will be conducted at night.

This construction effort follows a comprehensive bidding process initiated by the government for several projects along Highway 102. The proposals are part of a broader strategy to enhance transportation infrastructure in the region, particularly between exits 0 and 4 through the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Future Transportation Vision

The highway improvements align with Atlantic Canada’s Regional Transportation Plan, which outlines strategies for traffic enhancements in the region over the next two decades. Minister Tilley emphasized the government’s dual commitment: “We want Nova Scotians to know that while we’re planning for our future transportation system, we’re also committed to making improvements that can help now.”

As the project unfolds, residents and commuters in Bedford can expect both short-term disruptions and long-term benefits as the government seeks to improve traffic conditions on this vital roadway.