There was no significant damage to highways in southwestern Newfoundland, including the construction sites on the Trans-Canada Highway, following a significant rainfall in the region overnight.

At the construction site near the weigh scales outside Port aux Basques, backfilling continues on sections of culverts installed this week. The installation of remaining culverts is delayed due to elevated water levels. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure now anticipates the Trans-Canada Highway in that area to reopen later in the week.

Highways in the Codroy Valley experienced minor damage. Repairs are in progress and alternate routes are available for most motorists in these areas.

Updates on progress to repairs in the region are being provided as they become available.

Motorists are reminded to obey traffic control, watch for heavy equipment and crews on open highways, and to follow the advice and direction of emergency officials and stay away from the damaged areas. Avoiding these areas will allow crews to complete the work in a more timely manner.

Air services remain in place, weather dependent, for residents who require travel to reach urgent medical appointments or other urgent travel needs. For medical appointments, please contact 1-833-784-6802. For all other urgent needs, please call 1-833-885-0385.

Residents are encouraged to avail of the air services until the highway is officially opened, otherwise they risk missing appointments.

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Media contacts
Kathryn Summers
Transportation and Infrastructure
709-729-1758, 699-6147
kathrynsummers@gov.nl.ca

Emily Jane-Gillingham
Justice and Public Safety
709-729-5524, 730-4607
emilygillingham@gov.nl.ca