FAQ
What was the Highway 104 Project?
The Highway 104 project saw 38 kilometres between Sutherlands River, Pictou County and Antigonish twinned as well as the construction of new interchanges and bridges.
The project included:
- approximately 10 km of new, 4-lane divided highway
- 28 km of twinning existing highway
- 2 new interchanges
- 24 new bridges
- upgrading and repaving of the existing 2-lane section to like-new condition
- environmental enhancements including wildlife corridors and fencing
The project also includes the transfer of the ongoing operations, maintenance and rehabilitation responsibilities (OM&R) for this alignment, as well as for the 9.3 km of existing divided highway between East River Road New Glasgow and Exit 27, and for the recently completed 16 km section at Antigonish to Dexter Nova Alliance (DNA). The total length of OM&R responsibility is approximately 63 kms over a concession period of twenty (20) years following construction completion.
Who is Dexter Nova Alliance?
Dexter Nova Alliance (DNA) was the consortium selected by the Nova Scotia government to design, build, finance, operate and maintain (DBFOM) the stretch of Highway 104 between Sutherlands River and Antigonish.
Dexter Nova Alliance is led by local Nova Scotia companies Dexter Construction and Nova Construction, with BBGI as an equity partner.
How long did the Highway 104 project take?
Construction started in July 2020 and was certified Substantially Complete in August 2023.
How much did it cost?
The project was awarded to DNA at $717.9 million over the lifetime of the project. The federal government contributed $90 million to the project under the National Trade Corridors Fund.
Were local contractors used?
Dexter Construction and Nova Construction are both proudly Nova Scotian companies. The Nova Scotian highway was built, for the most part, by Nova Scotians.
What is the current status of the project?
Highway 104 was certified Substantially Complete on August 31, 2023. DNA commenced operations and maintenance of this stretch of the highway in June 2021 and will continue until 2043.
Was an Environmental Assessment conducted for the highway expansion?
Environmental approval for the project was granted by the Minister of Environment on January 29, 2019. Attached to that approval were conditions and requirements concerning surface water; groundwater; flora and fauna; air quality, archaeological and heritage resources; public engagement; engagement with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia; and contingency plans. More information on the environmental assessment process can be found at https://novascotia.ca/nse/ea/highway-104-twinning-sutherlands-river/.