New interchange and connector roads are set to improve transportation in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley, with the construction of a new Highway 101 interchange. The project, known as the Cambridge Interchange, will see Exit 14A built between Coldbrook and Berwick, reducing delays and heavy truck traffic on secondary roads near schools and residential areas.

The new interchange, estimated to cost $47 million, will be funded by the provincial and federal governments. The Province will provide about $25.3 million, while the federal government will commit about $21.8 million.

A map showing where Exit 14A will be constructed. Photo: NS Government.

“The project will support the local, provincial and national economy, while creating business opportunities for the Annapolis Valley First Nation,” said Public Works Minister Kim Masland. “This is an area of Nova Scotia that routinely experiences delays and heavy truck traffic on secondary roads near schools and residential areas. This new exit will improve travel times and safety and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The project will also provide development opportunities by giving access to lands in the Annapolis Valley First Nation community and the Municipality of the County of Kings, as well as improving supply chain efficiency for major industrial, commercial and agri-food businesses in the area, including Michelin.

The interchange will be constructed with a traditional diamond ramp configuration, including roundabouts at each of the new intersections. Along the south connector road, a bridge will be built over the Cornwallis River and a tunnel will be constructed on the Harvest Moon Trailway to safely accommodate trail users.

“This is important to both current needs and future plans for the area while increasing safety and easing congestion on Highway 1,” said Peter Muttart, Mayor of the Municipality of the County of Kings.

The project received public input during the planning phase, and is being hailed by stakeholders as an important investment that will improve safety and logistics for businesses in the area.

“We are excited for today’s announcement and the opportunities it will bring to Annapolis Valley First Nation and the whole valley region,” said Chief Gerald Toney of the Annapolis Valley First Nation. “We are optimistic that this new interchange will not only increase safety for our members and for surrounding communities, but it will also help us to increase economic opportunities for our entire region.”

The project is undergoing a provincial environmental assessment and is expected to take three years to complete.