This project will improve long-term public safety, infrastructure resilience, and visitor experience.
Today, the Honourable Julie Dabrusin, Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Nature, announced a $7.1 million infrastructure project for essential infrastructure upgrades along Highway 431 at Barter's Hill in Gros Morne National Park. This infrastructure investment will improve safety, while supporting both local communities and visitors to the national park.
In January 2018, Gros Morne National Park experienced a severe storm that caused significant flooding and damage to existing infrastructure. One of the most affected areas was Highway 431 at kilometre 6.0, commonly known as "Barter's Hill". As an emergency measure, the embankment was temporarily stabilized to maintain access on this important corridor for local communities and visitors to the national park.
Through this federal investment, Parks Canada will ensure the long-term stabilization of the embankment foundation by installing a more robust retaining wall, with a lifespan of 75 years, to mitigate the effects of high-water flows experienced in Barter's Creek during storm events. In addition to preventing further erosion and embankment failure, this work will also help minimize future environmental impacts and reduce disturbance to habitat, vegetation and aquatic ecosystems, such as Barter's Brook. Repairs will also be made to the riding surface of Highway 431 to ensure a safe and comfortable traveling experience, while extending the surface life and lowering maintenance costs for this highly traveled roadway.
The Government of Canada is committed to protecting natural and cultural treasures in Canada and advancing infrastructure projects at Parks Canada administered sites to create economic and tourism opportunities. By investing in resilient infrastructure, this project will address safety and environmental concerns, extend the lifespan of public assets, and ensure visitors can continue travelling to and through these iconic places for decades to come.
