Just 27% of N.S. roads were in ‘good’ or better condition in 2022: Statistics Canada

A recent report from Statistics Canada has revealed concerning data regarding the deteriorating state of Nova Scotia’s public roads. According to the statistics, a staggering 62 percent of Nova Scotia’s roads were rated as being in “fair” condition or worse in 2022. This is significantly worse than the national average, with only 27 percent of Canada’s roads overall falling into the same category.

The term “fair” condition, as defined by Statistics Canada, indicates that while the infrastructure is still functioning safely, there is noticeable deterioration with isolated sections or minor components in need of repair or replacement. This data is collected through a biennial survey conducted by Statistics Canada, where governments and organizations self-report the quality of their infrastructure based on standardized definitions provided by the agency.

Duncan Williams, the president of the Construction Association of Nova Scotia, expressed little surprise at the dismal state of the province’s roads. He highlighted that Nova Scotia has lagged behind in terms of infrastructure maintenance, including roads, bridges, and highways. Williams noted that the province’s extensive network of roads, coupled with its rural nature, presents a significant challenge in terms of maintenance and upkeep.

The report also shed light on the condition of Nova Scotia’s major highways, with nearly three-quarters of them being classified as fair or worse in 2022. This data serves as a crucial tool for governments to understand the cost implications of maintaining existing infrastructure, according to Statistics Canada section chief Lee-Anne Jennings.

The majority of roads in Nova Scotia are owned by the provincial government, with more than 23,500 kilometers falling under their responsibility. In response to the report, the Nova Scotia Department of Public Works pointed to the five-year highway improvement plan for the current fiscal year. The plan emphasizes the province’s unique responsibility for maintaining the majority of its public roads.

In recent years, provincial governments have made strides in investing in infrastructure, but there is still a significant backlog of maintenance and repairs to address. Challenges such as shortened paving seasons due to winter weather and a lack of advanced technology like automated traffic control further complicate efforts to improve road conditions.

To address these challenges, Nova Scotia has planned over 160 highway improvement projects for the current fiscal year and increased funding for its gravel road program by $15 million. This program focuses on enhancing existing roads in rural areas. The Department of Public Works also allocates budget towards proactive maintenance to prevent costly repairs down the line.

In the government’s 2024-25 capital plan, a substantial $483.3 million has been allocated to projects outlined in the highway improvement plan. This investment underscores the province’s commitment to improving its infrastructure and addressing the pressing issue of deteriorating roads.