The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure has received the first five new snowplows that were procured for the winter operations fleet. These trucks are part of the 64 plow trucks that are due to arrive this winter season.
The Provincial Government continuously reviews its snow clearing equipment from an operational perspective. As such, these new plow trucks will replace units that have been taken out of service as well as aging trucks scheduled for replacement.
Last year, Budget 2024 allocated an additional $25 million to purchase equipment to support road maintenance operations in the province, including loaders and tractor trucks, as well as new medium-duty plow and spreader trucks for local roads.
The Provincial Government also committed an additional $25 million per year over four more years for a heavy fleet renewal program, representing the largest ever multi-year investment in new equipment to ensure a safe and reliable road network.
While new equipment assists winter maintenance efforts throughout the province, motorists are also reminded to slow down and adjust their driving habits to be prepared for changes in weather, icy patches, slushy sections, snow covered sections and poor visibility. It is recommended that motorists should:
- Check nl511.ca or the 511 smartphone app for highway driving conditions, highway cameras and the Provincial Plow Tracker before travelling.
- Check the latest Environment Canada
- Slow down and drive to conditions.
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“These five new trucks are welcome replacements to the province’s fleet of winter maintenance vehicles, enhancing our ability to maintain our provincial highways and roads during the winter season. Safety is paramount for our government, and the support in Budget 2024 will allow us to continue to add more vehicles as they are manufactured.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
Minister of Rural Economic Development
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