News Release

SHIPPAGAN (GNB) – A ceremony was held today celebrating the construction of a section of a new paved bicycle path, extending the Sentier Rivage boardwalk. The 3.6-kilometre bicycle path, which runs south along du Réservoir Street, will be completed by the end of August.

"Investing in community infrastructure projects such as this bicycle path will improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors to Shippagan and the Acadian Peninsula," said Economic Development Minister Paul Robichaud.

The provincial government is investing $184,500 in the project. The Town of Shippagan is directing $184,500 of its federal Gas Tax Fund allocation and is contributing the balance of the total project cost of $369,000.

"This new bike path will be a great addition to the boardwalk, which Shippagan residents and visitors will enjoy for years to come," said Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe MP Robert Goguen, parliamentary secretary to the minister of Justice. "Our government will continue to deliver long-term infrastructure funding to support municipalities and communities in New Brunswick while creating local jobs and economic growth across Canada."

Goguen was appearing on behalf of Denis Lebel, federal minister of transport, infrastructure and communities.

"The Town of Shippagan and its residents will be extremely proud to benefit finally from this prestigious infrastructure, which will ensure both a way to travel within the community and a way to enjoy nature and its benefits through physical activity and cycling,” said Shippagan Mayor  Tilmon Mallet. “There remains about one kilometre to complete to join the town's outer limits within a charming and safe environment. With the future extension of this bicycle path, we will be able to visit our neighbouring municipalities while maintaining our physical health and helping the environment. On behalf of the municipal council of the Town of Shippagan, I would like to thank the provincial and federal governments for their contributions to this beautiful project."

In December 2011, the federal government passed legislation to make the Gas Tax Fund a permanent annual investment of $2 billion per year. Between 2010 and 2014, the federal government, through the Gas Tax Fund alone, will provide $178.532 million for municipal infrastructure in New Brunswick. During the same time period, the Town of Shippagan will receive $856,096 from the fund.