GRAND BAY-WESTFIELD (CNB) – A new connector road providing access to Highway 7 for residents of Grand Bay-Westfield was officially opened today by federal, provincial and municipal officials.

"This new collector road will not only allow easier and safer access to the main highway, it will also provide opportunities for residential and commercial development in Grand Bay-Westfield," said Fundy-River MLA Jim Parrott.

Parrott attended the event on behalf of Economic Development Minister Paul Robichaud.

"Our government is investing in infrastructure priorities to enable communities across our country to continue to grow and prosper," said New Brunswick Southwest MP John Williamson. "The completion of this connector road is a prime example of our commitment to strong, prosperous communities and to supporting economic growth. This initiative will have a positive impact on the region now and for many years to come."

Williamson attended the event on behalf of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities Minister Denis Lebel.

"We are extremely pleased to have partnered with both the federal and provincial governments in order to provide this expanded commercial space and sustainable, healthy residential environment within our community," said Grand Bay-Westfield Mayor GraceLosier.

The federal, provincial and municipal governments collectively provided $5.4 million to construct the road from Highway 7 to the centre of Grand Bay-Westfield, off Highland Road. The initiative was part of the 2008-09 New Brunswick Annual Capital Plan under the Provincial-Territorial Base Fund.

Under this fund, the federal government is providing $175 million to each province to address core infrastructure priorities. Under this program, federal funding flows based on approved provincial/territorial capital plans and not individual initiatives.