The Canadian government has allocated a $32 million contract to replace a ramp at the Souris terminal, which serves as the year-round ferry connection to the Magdalen Islands. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon disclosed on Monday that Nova Scotia’s Dexter Construction had secured the contract to upgrade the movable transfer bridge.
In a press release, MacKinnon emphasized the critical role of the ferry terminal in linking communities, jobs, and markets, stating that the replacement of the transfer bridge is an investment in ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of the service. The initiative is expected to boost economic growth in Eastern Canada and enhance connectivity within the region.
The transfer bridge, essential for boarding and disembarking passengers and vehicles, will undergo modernization as part of the project, providing employment opportunities throughout the design and construction phases. Kent MacDonald, the Member of Parliament for the Cardigan riding encompassing Souris, highlighted that all construction activities for the ramp will be sourced from Atlantic Canada, emphasizing the positive economic impact on the local rural economy.
Design work on the ramp will commence immediately, with construction set to begin later this year and an anticipated completion date of summer 2028. The project aims to enhance the terminal’s infrastructure, ensuring a safe and reliable operation for the ferry service. Joel Cummings, the director of Maritime operations at Coopérative de Transport Maritime et Aérien (CTMA), hailed the government’s decision as a significant development for Eastern Canada, emphasizing the importance of secure infrastructure for the ferry’s operations.
CTMA’s Souris terminal, facilitating transportation to Cap-aux-Meules, Que., and serving as a crucial link to the Magdalen Islands, witnesses a substantial flow of goods, passengers, and vehicles annually. Cummings expressed gratitude for the government’s investment, emphasizing the positive impact on mobility and safety. MacDonald underscored the broader benefits of ferry services on local communities, citing their economic contributions and the support they offer to various businesses in the area.