N.S. Liberals promise to improve cellphone services and highways

Nova Scotia’s Liberal party has made promises to improve cellphone coverage and invest in major highways if they are elected to govern on Nov. 26. Party leader Zach Churchill announced on Thursday during a news conference in Halifax that a Liberal government would allocate $60 million over four years to build 87 new cellphone towers. Churchill emphasized the dire state of cellphone coverage in the province, stating, “Our cellphone coverage is in a really terrible state right now.”

This funding would be in addition to the $66 million that the Progressive Conservative government committed to similar projects last year through the Crown corporation Build Nova Scotia. Churchill stressed that the priority would be to expand cell service along the province’s major highways, where coverage gaps pose safety issues. He highlighted the government’s plan to add exits along Highway 104 across the top of the mainland and build a bypass along Highway 101 near Digby to enhance connectivity.

In a bid to address the province’s poorly maintained roads, Churchill revealed that the Liberals aim to complete Nova Scotia’s 100-series controlled access highways by injecting $40 million into the $500 million capital budget for highways. Citing Statistics Canada data showing that only 27% of the province’s roads are in good condition, Churchill emphasized the urgency of improving road infrastructure.

As the leaders of the three main political parties prepared for a televised debate scheduled for broadcast at 6 p.m., Churchill, alongside Premier Tim Houston and NDP Leader Claudia Chender, geared up for a 90-minute debate to be aired live on CBC TV and streamed online. The debate would provide a platform for the leaders to discuss their respective plans and visions for the province’s future.

The Liberal party’s commitment to enhancing cellphone coverage and investing in major highways underscores their focus on improving infrastructure and connectivity in Nova Scotia. With the election drawing near, voters will have the opportunity to evaluate the different parties’ proposals and make an informed decision on the future direction of the province.