The Government of Canada and Nova Scotia has agreed to provide C$28m ($20.8m) of funding for a new interchange and connector road off Highway 102.

The project would feature a new exit along Highway 102 at Lantz, a controlled access connector road linking the highway to Trunk 2, four ramps, and a roundabout at each intersection of on and off ramps, as well as wider lanes in both directions along highway.

Canada Member of Parliament for Kings-Hants and treasury board president Scott Brison said: "Public infrastructure connects people, supports job creation, and boosts economic development.

"This project will help families, residents and visitors reach their destinations more safely and efficiently, while enabling our economy to remain competitive well into the future."

“The Government of Canada is working in close partnership with the Province of Nova Scotia to ensure we make smart investments that help grow the middle class, promote sustainable development and increase public safety.

“The construction of the new Lantz interchange will enhance economic growth in the area while reducing congestion, thereby improving safety at the Elmsdale exit where current traffic can dangerously back up onto the highway."

Upon completion of the project, the government anticipates that the road would significantly improve traffic circulation, increase driver safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions resulting from congestion.

Nova Scotia Minister of Environment and MLA for Hants East Margaret Miller said: "Our community has been campaigning for a new interchange for many years and I'm very pleased to see this important project moving forward.

“This project will help families, residents and visitors reach their destinations more safely and efficiently, while enabling our economy to remain competitive well into the future.

“We will continue to work with our federal and municipal partners to build a strong foundation that will allow us to grow, to prosper and to build for future generations."

For this project, the Canadian government will be providing C$14m ($10.4m), representing 50% of the total eligible costs, while the remaining costs will be provided by the Government of Nova Scotia.